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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



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PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK 

ON THE 

GOSPEL OF MATTHEW 

TO AID 

SABBATH-SCHOOLS, FAMILIES AND INDIVIDUALS 
IN THE STUDY OF THE BIBLE. 



LESSONS INCLUDE EVERY VERSE IN THE BOOK OF MATTHEW, 
AND GIVE BRIEF EXPLANATIONS, QUESTIONS AND APPLICA- 
TIONS, WITH QUESTIONS FOR A WEEKLY REVIEW. 



BY 

REV. EDWH W. RICE, D.D. 



17 1887 



PHILADELPHIA^ 

THE AMERICAN SUNDAY-SCHOOL UNION, 

1122 Chestnut Street. 



New York: 10 Bible House. 



^Szb'/Co 



PREFACE. 



The advantage of consecutive study of a gospel narrative, 
or of any Bible-book, is widely recognized by the best teachers. 
For, in attempting to learn the mind of the Spirit, it seems 
more fitting to study an entire sacred book, in the order in 
which it was written by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. 

The People's Lesson Book is designed for those who wish 
to study the whole gospel of Matthew upon this plan, with these 
new features t 

1. Taking every verse consecutively. 

2. With Bible or Testament in hand. The Bible text is not 
printed in the Lesson Book, so that the scholar will be compelled 
to have his Bible or Testament, and to become familiar with its 
use. 

3. A "memory verse" from each lesson, to be committed to 
memory. 

4. Daily Home Readings, from Scripture, throwing light upon 
the lesson. 

5. A sketch of the lesson, and an outline as a guide. 

6. Explanations of difficult verses. 

7. Questions under each verse of the lesson, thus making it 
also, one of the most complete question books. 

8. Practical applications of the truths of every lesson. 

The book also contains a Bible Dictionary of persons, and 
places, maps and chronological tables, and provides seventy-six 
lessons, which are therefore suitable for a year and a half of 
Sabbath study. 

The author is specially indebted to the Bev. Malcolm W. 
Woodworth, for valuable assistance in the preparation of this 
work. E. W.R. 



Copyright by The American Sunday-School Union, 1887. 
(2) 



CONTENTS. 



LESS. PAGE. 

1. Lineage and Birth of Jesus, 
Matt. 1: 1-25 7 

2. Visit of the Wise Men, Matt. 
2: 1-12 10 

3. Flight into Egvpt, Matt. 2 : 
13-23 .'. 12 

4. Preaching of John, and Bap- 
tism of Jesus, Matt. 3 : 1-17.. 15 

5. Temptation of Jesus, Matt. 
4: 1-11 „ 18 

6. Jesus, his Ministry, Matt. 4 : 

13-25 20 

7. The Beatitudes, Matt. 5 : 1- 

16 23 

8. Jesus and the Law, Matt. 5 : 

17-26 27 

9. Law of Thought and Speech, 
Matt. 5:27-37 29 

10. Love Required by the Law, 
Matt. 5 : 38-48 32 

11. Giving and Praying, Matt. 6 : 
1-15 34 

12. Fasting and Heavenly Mind- 
ed ness, Matt. 6 : 16-24 37 

13. Heavenly Father's Care, 
Matt. 6 : 25-34 39 

14. True Religion, Matt. 7 : 1-14.. 42 

15. False and True, Matt. 7 : 

15 29 44 

16. Jesus' Power oyer Disease, 
Matt. 8:1-17 47 

17. Power over Men, &c.,Matt. 

8 : 13-34 50 

IS. Power to Forgive Sins, Matt. 

9 : 1-8 53 

19. Friend of Sinners, Matt, 9 : 
9-17 55 

20. Raising Ruler's Daughter, &c. 
Matt. 9: 18-26 57 

21. Healing Blind and Dumb, 
Matt. 9 : 27-34 59 

22. Harvest and Laborers, Matt. 
9: 35-33 and 10:1-4 61 

23. Charge to Twelve, Matt. 10 : 
5-15 64 

24. Perils and God's Care, Matt. 

10:16-31 66 

25. Confessing Christ, Matt. 10 : 
32-42 and 11 : 1 69 

26. Jesus' Witness to John, Matt. 
11; 2-19 71 



LESS. PAGE. 

27. Rejecting and Receiving 

Christ, Matt. 11 : 2U-30 74 

28. Jesus and Sabbath, Matt. 12 ; 

1-13 76 

29. Malice of Christ's Foes, Matt, 

12: 14-24 79 

30. Foes Rebuked and Warned, 
Matt. 12 : 25-37 82 

31. Wrong View about Christ, 
Matt. 12 : 38-50 84 

32. Parable of the Sower, Matt. 

13 : 1-9 and 18-23 87 

33. Why Christ Taught in Para- 
bles, Matt. 13 : 10-17 and 34, 
35 90 

34. W T heat and Tares, Matt. 13 : 
24-30 and 36-43 92 

35. Five Parables, Matt. 13 : 31-33 
and 44-50 95 

36. Carpenter's Son, Matt. 13 : 
51-58 98 

37. John Beheaded, Matt. 14 : 
1-12 100 

38. Feeding Five Thousand, 
Matt. 14 : 13-21 102 

39. Walking on the Water, Matt. 
14:22-36 105 

40. Jesus and Tradition, Matt. 

15:1-20 .....108 

41. Woman of Great Faith, Matt. 

15:21-28 110 

42. Feeding Four Thousand, 
Matt. 15 : 29-39 113 

43. False Doctrine of Pharisees, 
Matt. 16 : 1-12 115 

44. Confessing and Cross-bear- 
ing, Matt. 15 : 13-28 117 

45. The Transfiguration, Matt, 
17:1-13 120 

46. Weak and Mistaken Disci- 
ples, Matt. 17 ; 14-27 122 

47. Christ and Little Ones, Matt. 
18:1-20 125 

48. Discipline and Forgiveness 
Matt. 13 : 21-35 128 

49. Marriage and Family, Matt. 
19: 1-15 130 

50. Rich Young Man, Matt. 19 : 
16-26 132 

51. Disciples' Reward, Matt. 19 : 
27-30 and 20 : 1-16 134 



CONTENTS. 



LESS. PAGE. 

52. True and False Greatness, 
Matt. 20 : 17-34 137 

53. Kingly Entry, &c, Matt. 21 : 
1-17 140 

54. Barren Fig Tree, Matt. 21 ; 
18-32 142 

55. Wicked Husbandmen, Matt. 
21:33-46 145 

56. Marriage of King's Son, Matt. 
22 : 1-14 147 

57. Herodians and Sadducees Si- 
lenced, Matt. 22 : 15-33 149 

58. Pharisees Silenced, Matt. 22 : 
34-46. 152 

59. Christ our Master, Matt. 23 : 
1-12 154 

60. Woes upon Scribes and Phar- 
isees, Matt. 23 : 13-26 157 

61. Woes upon Jerusalem, Matt. 

23 • 27-39 159 

62. Coming of the End, Matt. 24 : 
1-14 161 

63. Signs of the End, Matt. 24 : 
15-35 163 



LESS. PAGE. 

64. Time of End Not Revealed, 
Matt. 24 : 36-51 166 

65. Ten Virgins, Matt. 25 : 1-13...168 

66. The Talents, Matt. 25 : 14-30..171 

67. Last Judgment, Matt. 25 : 
31-46 173 

68. Conspiracy and Anointing at 
Bethany, Matt. 26 : 1-16 176 

69. Lord's Supper , Matt. 26 : 17-35 179 

70. In Gethsemane, Matt. 26 : 
36-56 181 

71. Jesus Before Caiaphas, Matt. 
26:57-68 184 

72. Peter's Denial and Judas' 
Death, Matt. 26 : 69-75 and 27 : 
3-10 ..186 

73. Jesus before Pilate, Matt. 27: 
1, 2 and 11-28 189 

74. The Crucifixion, Matt. 27 : 
29-50 191 

75. Earthquake, Burial and 
Watch, Matt. 27 : 51-66 194 

76. The Resurrection, Matt. 28 : 
1-20 197 

Bible Dictionary , 201-209 

Order of Service, 210. 



GOSPEL OF MATTHEW. 

The gospel according to Matthew was written by the apostle and evan- 
gelist Matthew, doubtless the same as Levi, and a son of Alphseus ; called 
as a disciple by our Lord when he was " sitting at the receipt of custom," 
and therefore a publican or tax-collector. Of his later life nothing is 
certainly known. 

The language in which he originally wrote his Gospel has been inferred 
to be Hebrew — that is Aramaic — since early writers who make any men- 
tion of his writing a Gospel say he wrote in Hebrew. The works of early 
writers which have been preserved to our time, however, show that they 
used a Greek copy of the Gospel; hence there must have been a Gospel 
by Matthew in Greek in the days of the apostles, and it is therefore of 
undisputed authority, even if there was a Hebrew copy. It is quite 
probable he wrote both in Hebrew and in Greek. 

When and Where Written. — Where it was written is unknown, and in 
what year it was written is uncertain. The most probable date fixes it 
between A. d. 60 and 66 ; it was certainly written before the destruction 
of Jerusalem. 

The Co ntents— Matthew gives a biographical sketch of the life of Jesus 
the Christ, to show that he was the true Messiah, descending in his human 
nature from Abraham and David, and that he fulfilled the promises and 
prophecies of the Old Testament concerning the Christ. He also indicates 
the true nature of Christ's kingdom, his self-sacrifice, his prophecies of 
judgments on the Jewish people and the world, and his final glory at the 
right hand of God. 



CHRONOLOGICAL HARMONY 

Of the Events in Gospel History : based on Robinson and Andrews. 
B. C. 

6, October. The Angel appears to Zacharias, (A. U. C. 748). 

5, April. The Angel appears to Mary, (A. U. 0. 749;. 
... April, June. Yisit of Mary to Elisab-.th. 
... June. Birth of John. 
•.-. December. Birth of Jesus at Bethlehem. 

i, January. Circumcision of Jesus, (A. IT. C. 750). 
... February. Presentation of Jesus : Simeon. 

" Yisit of Magi, and Flight into Egypt 

... May. Return to Nazareth. 

A. D. 

8, April. Jesus, twelve years of age, attends the Passover. 

26, Summer. Preaching and Baptism of John. 

27, January. Baptism and Temptation of Jesus. 

... February. Jesus returns to Galilee ; Wedding at Cana. 
... April. At Passover: first Cleansing of the Temple. 
... May. Jesus Preaching and Baptizing in Judea. 
... December. Departs through Samaria into Galilee. 

28, January-April. Jesus spent some weeks in retirement. 
... March. John Imprisoned. 

... ApriL Second Passover. 

... April-May. Ministry in Galilee : calling for Disciples. 

... May. First Circuit in Galilee : cure of leper. 

*. Summer. Return to Capernaum: cure of paralytic: plucking corn; 
healing of withered hand: choice of the twelve: Sermon on the 
Mount: cure of Centurion's servant; raising widow's son at Nam: 
message of John to Jesus. 

»-« Autumn. Feast at Simon's house and anointing by woman who was a 
sinner: cure of blind and dumb at Capernaum: charge of casting out 
devils by Beelzebub : teaching by parables : stilling the tempest: cure 
•f demoniacs of Gergesa : return to Capernaum: Levi's feast: healing 
of woman with issue of blood : raising of Jairus' daughter : cure of two 
blind men, and a dumb possessed of demon : blasphemy of Pharisees. 

29, Winter. Second visit to Nazareth : mission of the twelve : John 

beheaded : Jesus returns to Capernaum, 
... Spring. Crossing the sea : 5,000 fed, and returns to Capernaum. 
... April. Discourse on bread of life. 
... Summer. Journey to region of Tyre and Sidon : cure of Syrophcenician's 

daughter: journey to Decapolis; cure of man with impediment in his 

speech: 4,000 fed: returns to Capernaum: is tempted by Pharisees: 
, crosses the sea: cures blind man at Bethsaida : Peter's great confession : 

first prediction of his death : the transfiguration : cure of lunatic child. 
... Autumn. Journeys thro' Galilee: temple tax: Feast of Tabernacles. 
.. October. Teaching in temple: attempts of officers to arrest Jesua: 

woman taken in adultery : cure of man born blind : returns to Galilee. 
... November. Final departure from Galilee : rejection at Samaria : mission 

of the Seventy : parable of Good Samaritan : form of prayer. 
... November — December. Cure of dumb man with devil ; dines with 

Pharisees : parable of rich fool : of fig tree : cure of infirm woman : 

warned against Herod. 
... December. Fea*t of Dedication at Jerusalem : visit to Mary and Martha : 

threatened with stoning : retires beyond Jordan : dines with a Pharisee : 

heals man with dropsy : parables : great supper : lost sheep : lost 

money: prodigal son: unjust steward : rich man and Lazarus- 



CHRONOLOGICAL HARMONY. 

A. D. 

30. January-February. Raising of Lazarus: Jesus retires to Ephraimr 
journeys to border of Samaria and Galilee. 

30, February-March. Cure of ten lepers: Parables, unjust judge: Pharisee 
and Publican: teaching respecting divorce: blessing little children: 
the rich, young ruler : Parable of laborers in vineyard. 

... March. Second prediction of his death ; ambitious request of James and 
John: cure of blind men at Jericho: Zacchaeus: Parable of ihe 
pounds, etc. 

... April 1. Supper and anointing at Bethanj\ 

" 2. Triumphal entry into Jerusalem : visit to the temple. 
" 3. Cursing of the fig tree: second cleansing of the temple. 
•' 4. Teaching in the temple: Parables of two sons: wicked husband- 
men: King's son: triple attempt to ensnare him by questions, on 
tribute to Caesar, the resurrection, and the great commandment: the 
widow's mite : the Greeks: voice from heaven: discourse on Mount 
of Olives on destruction ot temple: end of world, etc.: return to 
Bethany: bargain of Judas. 

... April 5. Retirement at Bethany. 

*' 6. Preparation for paschal supper: Last Passover: institution of 
Lord's Supper: denial of Peter foretold: long discourse: agony in 
Gethsemane : betrayal by Judas, and arrest of Jesus, etc. 

... April 7. Before Annas: trial before Caiaphas : before full Sanhedrin: 
before Pilate : sent to Herod : returned to Pilate : the crucifixion. 

The Crucifixion : reviled by enemies : commends his mother 
to John: the darkness: the death: veil rent: earthquakes: body 
given to Joseph, and laid in tomb : the watch. 

... April 9. The Resurrection: appearance to Mary Magdalene: to the two 
going to Emmaus : to Peter: to the Eleven at Jerusalem. 

... April 16. Appearance to the Apostles, Thomas present. 

... April-May. Appearance ta seven disciples by the Sea of Galilee: to 500 
in a mountain of Galilee. 

... May 18. — Thursday. Final appearance and ascension near Bethany. 



In the chronological outline of gospel history, Robinson and Andrews 
agree in making our Lord's ministry extend somewhat over three years. 
Andrews regards the events in the first year as related only by John, chaps. 
I. to V.; and that the second year was spent in Galilee, which included 
all the events noted in the first three gospels from the beginning of Christ's 
ministry to the feeding of the 5,000 and the discourse at Capernaum. 

Robinson makes the introduction of our Lord's public ministry begin in 
the same year with the ministry and baptism of John ; and ends that year 
with the mirae'e of Cana in Galilee. 

The second year begins with the first cleansing of the temple: includes 
his Judein ministry; visit to Samaria; rejection at Nazareth; call of the 
lour ; cure of Peter's wife's mother, and others ; and the call of Matthew. 

The third year begins with the healing of the infirm man at the pool of 
Bethesda; includes his ministry in Galilee, part of that in Becapolis, as the 
feeding of the 5,000 and discourse at Capernaum. Jesus did not attend this 
Passover at Jerusalem, according to Robinson's view. 

The last year began with the journey into the region of Tyre and fidon; 
included the feeding of 4,000; the transfiguration; the Feast of Tabernacles 
and of Dedication, noticed by John ; and his Perean ministry. 

It should be noticed that according to Robinson's view they? rst year of 
our Lord's ministry extended only over a portion of that year, and is really 
identical with Andrews' list of events placed before the first Passover, but 
after the baptism of Jesus. 



people's lesson book. 



LESSON - 1. 

LINEAGE AND BIRTH OF JESUS.— Matt. 1 : 1-25. 

MEMORY TEXT.— And thou shalt call his name Jesus: 
for he shall save his people from their sins.— Matt. 1 : 21. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Lineage of Jesus. 

2. Birth of Jesus. 



Home Readings. 

M. Glory of Zion Ps. 87. 

T. The Angel and Mary Luke 1 : 26-38. 

W. Troubled Matt. 19 : 3-9. 

Th. Guided .Acts 10 : 1-33. 

R Prophecy Stated ..Isa. 7 : 10-16. 

Sat. Jesus Divine John 1 : 1-14. 

S. Faith Obeys Ps. 34. 



Time. — B. C. o. The date of our Christian era was not fixed until 
the sixth century. It has since been found that it was fixed four years 
or more too late". Jesus was probably born in December, B. C. 5. 

Place.— Bethlehem, south of Jerusalem. See " Bible Dictionary " (at 
end of this book). 

Persons. — The persons named in vs. 1-17, are the human ancestors of 
Jesus. The other persons named are Mary, Joseph, Jesus. See " Bible 
Dictionary " (at end of this book). 

Rulers. — Augustus Caesar emperor at Rome, Herod the Great king 
of Judaea. 

Historical Sketch.— Virgil the poet died B. C. 19; Horace died B.C. 
8 ; Livy, A. D. 17 ; Ovid, A. D. 18 ; Strabo the great geographer, born about 
B. C. 60, was living A. D. 21. The Empire of Alexander spread the Greek 
language over Western Asia. His Empire was divided, B. C. 323, into 
several divisions in which the Greek was the language of the government. 
The Roman Triumvirates, and later the Roman Empire, under Augustus 
Caesar, B. C. 27— A. D. 14 arose, and Rome ruled the civilized world at the 
beginning of the Christian era, yet the Greek language and culture was 
dominant over the largest portion of the Roman world. The Julian house 
of the Caesars — Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius and Nero — ruled 
as emperors from B. C. 27, to A. D. 68. 

Matthew begins his gospel by giving the Jewish records, which showed 
that Jesus was born of a virgin, of the line of David and of the seed of 
Abraham, as the Scripture said Messiah would come. 2 Sam. 22 : 31-51 ; 
Gen. 12 : 3 ; Isa. 7 : 14. Matthew relates the betrothal of Joseph and Mary, 
the trouble in Joseph's mind, the command of the angel, and the promise 
of a Saviour. Joseph obeys the divine command. The wonderful and 
mysterious child is born, and as directed by the angel they call his name 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. book of the generation — This is the name or title 
of the family records then preserved. Matthew gives the line 



8 LINEAGE ANI> BIRTH OF JESUS. 

of Joseph. In Luke 3 : 23-38 it is probably the line of Mary, which 
is traced to David and Abraham. Jesus — means Saviour. 
Christ — means anointed ; Jesus is the personal, Christ, the official 
title. Son of David, the son of Abraham — tracing it back, his 
line reaches David and then Abraham. Coming from David 
the king, and from Abraham, Jesus fulfilled prophecy, Gen. 12 : 
3 ; 22 : 18 ; 2 Sam. 7:12; Ps. 89 : 3, 4. fourteen generations— 
The records are arranged in three periods of fourteen generations 
each, embracing the most important ones. The first fourteen 
generations brought the line to its greatest glory under David ; 
the second fourteen, to its greatest humiliation in the captivity ; 
the third fourteen, to its greater glory in the Messiah. The list 
begins with Abraham and ends with 
Jesus, v. 18. on this wise — This 
marks some change in the usual 
manner of the birth now noted, es- 
poused — or " betrothed." This was 
more than "an engagement" with 
us. It was in law a marriage, hence 
Joseph is called "husband" and 
Mary " the wife," see vs. 19, 20. v. 
19. just man — or "righteous man." 
In doubt about Mary, ho wished to 
do right to himself, and to her. to 

put her away privily — He could put Ancient Rolls, Stylus and 
her away from being his wife : (1) Ink-wells, 

by making " her a public example," that is, by a legal process 
before a court, or; (2) "privily," that is, by giving her a 
"writing" before witnesses privately, Deut. 24 : 1 , Matt. 19 : 3. 
He thought to do the latter, v. 20. angel of the Lord — not " the 
angel," but "an angel" as in the R. V. It may have been 
Gabriel, Luke 1 : 19-26. Fear not — Do not fear to take Mary 
as thy wife, for that which is begotten in her is of the Holy 
Spirit. See R. V. margin, v. 22. is fulfilled — These mysteri- 
ous things accord with prophecy spoken several hundred years 
before, Isa. 7 : 14. The prediction was not the cause of the 
events, but the events fulfilled the prediction, v. 25. a son, 
R. V. omits "first born." Joseph obeyed the divine command, 
and received the divine blessing. 

QUESTIONS. 
Introductory. — Who wrote this gospel ? For whom did he 
write it ? What does he aim to prove in the gospel ? Where 
does he find the prophecies about the Messiah ? 




people's lesson book. 9 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. Lineage Of Jesus. Whose lineage is given in vs. 1-17 ? 

How was the list preserved ? [In public records.] 
What is the meaning of " Jesus * ? Of " Christ » ? Which 

is the official title ? 
Into how many periods is the lineage divided ? Into how 

many generations is each period divided ? 
Why is the geneology of Jesus traced to David and to Abra- 
ham? With what name does the list begin? With 
what name end ? 

2. Birth Of Jesus. To whom was Joseph espoused or be- 

trothed? v. 18. 
What was Joseph thinking he would do ? v. 19. 
What law allowed him to put Mary away privately ? Deut. 

24 : 1. What must he give her in order to do this? 
Who directed him what to do ? v. 20. What did the 

angel say to him ? Whose son did the angel say Joseph 

was? 
What more did the angel say? v. 21. 
Why should the son be called Jesus ? What would he do 

for his people? 
What prophecy did this fulfill ? v. 23. 
By whom was this prophecy spoken ? Isa. 7 : 14. 
What is the meaning of Immanuel? v. 23. 
What did Joseph do when he awaked from his sleep ? v. 24. 
What did he call the son ? v. 25. 

WE LEAEN FROM THIS: 

1. God never forgets his promises. 

2. Good persons may be troubled or perplexed. 

3. The Lord will guide those who wait upon him. 

4. Jesus Christ came to save sinners. 

5. Christ became man to save his people. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

[The teacher should give one of these topics to each of the advanced 
scholars, requesting a brief written paper on it to be read to the class.] 

1. What do we know about the author of this gospel — when written — 
in what language — and for what purpose? 

2. Quote four or five prophecies about the Messiah, which are given in 
the Old Testament, 

3. Describe what you know about the Jewish custom of betrothal and 
marriage. 

4. Give five titles or names given to Christ in the Scriptures, tell where 
they are found and what is the meaning of each. 



10 people's lesson book. 

IiESSOJST 2. [B. C. 4. 

VISIT OF THE WISE MEN. —Matt. 2 : 1-12. 

MEMORY TEXT.— And when they were come into 
the house, they saw the young child with Mary his 
mother, and fell down, and worshipped him.— Matt. 2 : 11. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Seeking Jesus. 

2. Finding Jesus. 

3. Worshipping 

Jesus. 



Home Headings. 

M. The child Jesus Matt. 2 : 1-12. 

T. Power of Christ Ps. 2 : 1-12. 

W. Glory of Bethlehem ..Luke 2 : 9-20. 

Th, Herod's Purpose Matt. 2 : 13-18. 

K Star of Bethlehem Num. 24 : 12-19. 

Sat. Gifts to God Horn. 12 : 1-17. 

S. The Warning Matt. 2 : 19-23. 



-@ 



Time. — January or February, B. C. 4. 

Places. — Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Judaea, the East (for description of 
persons and places, see Bible Dictionary at the end of this book). 

Persons. — Herod the Great, Wise Men, Jesus, Priests, Scribes. 

Historical Sketch. — The visit of the wise men occurred after that 
of the shepherds, and after the presentation in the temple, Luke 2 : 7-38, 
and probably about forty days after the birth of Christ (for secular His- 
tory, see Lesson 1). Jesus was born in Bethlehem, six miles south of 
Jerusalem. Soon after he was born, the wise men came from the East 
seeking him. They had seen a star which guided them to Jerusalem. 
Herod sent them to Bethlehem. There they found the infant Jesus. They 
made presents to him, worshipped him, and returned to their home. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 1. in the days — during the reign of. This Herod 
was the first of the Herodian family, and called Herod the 
Great ; to Jerusalem — because the capital of Judaea, v. 2. King of 
the Jews — the magi were probably acquainted with the Scrip- 
tures (Isa. 7 : 14 ; 9 : 6, 7 ; Num. 24 : 17), which foretold Messiah as 
a King ; star>~it is possible, but not very probable that the star 
was a conjunction of three planets — Mars, Jupiter and Saturn, 
or a new star or comet which appeared about this time; more 
probably it was a miraculous appearance of a star. v. 3. was 
troubled — a new king might bring war from the Romans, and 
Herod might lose his crown ; so they feared, v. 4. chief priests— 
the high priests and the heads of thctwenty-four classes of priests 
(1 Chron. 24 and 25 ; Neh. 11 : 16-46 ; 2 Chron. 23 : 18). scribes— 
those who copied and interpreted God's law. v. 5. the prophet — 



VISIT OF THE WISE MEN. 



11 




Micah 5:2; the quotation is made freely from the Greek version of 
the Scriptures, v. 6. princes — or thousands ; the Hebrew word 
may mean either, rule — or "foe a shepherd of my people," Ps. 23. 
v. 7. privily — secretly, inquired ... 
diligently — or "learned carefully of 
them." appeared — not merely when the 
star first was seen, but for how long a 
time it had been seen. v. 8. bring me 
word — " tell me." worship also — only 
a pretext, he meant to destroy the 
Christ, v. 9. . . . stood — appeared to 
do this, over where — over the house, v. 
11. fell down — the Oriental style of 
saluting a superior, presented . . . 
gifts — or offered them as was usually 
done to a distinguished person when 
visiting him. frankincense — a fragrant 
gum of a tree found in India, Arabia 
and Persia, used for incense in the tem- 
ple, myrrh — similar gum of a shrub. 
v. 12. departed into their own coun- 
try warned by the vision they went 
another way to the East, and not by 
Jerusalem. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Who wrote this gospel? What is the title 
of the first lesson ? Repeat the " memory text." In what 
year was Christ born ? Where ? What was the name of his 
mother ? Of his reputed father ? 

OK" THE LESSON. 

1. Seeking Jesus. Who came from the East? v. 1. 

To what city did the wise men come ? In whose reign ? 
Why to Jerusalem? What led them to come? v. 2. 
What effect did their question have on Herod ? v. 3 . Why ? 
What did Herod ask of the scribes ? v. 4. 

2. Finding Jesus. What did the scribes reply? v. 5. 
What did the prophecy say? v. 6. Where? Mic. 5 : 2. 
What did Herod then ask of the wise men? v. 7. 
Why ask it " privily " ? What is meant by " privily " ? 
To what place did Herod send them ? v. 8. 

What to do ? W r hat does ' c diligently " mean ? 



Myrrh. 



4 



12 people's lesson book. 

What did Herod say was his purpose ? v. 8. 
What was his real purpose? See v. 13. 
What did the wise men see, after they left Herod? v. 9. 
Over what place did the star rest ? 
". Worshipping Jesus. Whom did they find in the house? 
v. 11. 
What give him ? What is " myrrh " ? " Frankincense " ? 
Why did the wise men not return to Jerusalem? v. 12. 
Whither did they go ? By what way ? 

WE MAY LEARN: 

1. How God will guide those who seek him. 

2. That the Scriptures tell us of Christ. 

3. How God cares for his children. 

4. That he can thwart the secret plots of the wicked. 

5. That we should give of the best we have for Jesus. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. The character, habits, and reputation of Eastern Magi in the time 
of Christ. 

2. Other Bible instances of divine warning sent by dreams. 

3. Write the story of this visit of the wise men, in your own words. 



LESS03ST 3. [B. C. 4. 

THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT.— Matt 2 : 13-23. 

MEMORY TEXT.—" Arise, and take the young child 
and his mother, and go into the land of Israel : for they 
are dead which sought the young child's life. Matt. 2 : 20. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Child Safe. 

2. Herod Slays the 

Children. 

3. The Child Re- 

turns. 



Home Readings. 

M. Flight to Egypt Matt. 2 : 13-23. 

T. In Egypt Gen. 39 : 1-6. 

W. Deliverance Ex. 3 : 2-18. 

Th. Comfort to Israel Jer. 31 : 10-17. 

F. The Return Ex. 4 : 18-23. 

Sat. Confession Ezra 9 : 5-15. 

S. The Young Nazarene..Luke 2 : 39-52. 



Time— February, B. C. 4. to A. D. 26. 

Places.— Bethlehem, Egypt, Ramah, Judaea, Nazareth, Galilee. 



FLIGHT INTO EGYPT. 13 

Persons. — Joseph, Jesus, Herod, Archelaus, Jeremiah. 

Killers. — Augustus Ceesar at Rome, Herod the Great, then Archelaus 
at Jerusalem, and Herod Antipas in Galilee. 

Historical Sketch. — The wise men went home. Soon after an 
angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph. The angel told Joseph to take the 
infant Jesus and his mother and fiee into Egypt. Herod would try to 
kill the child. So Joseph took the child and his mother by night and 
started for Egypt. When Herod heard that the wise men had gone home, 
he was very angry. He ordered his soldiers to kill all the little boys in 
Bethlehem, under two years old. He was afraid Jesus would become 
king in his place. Herod died soon after this. Then the angel told 
Joseph to come back from Egypt. So he came back ; but he was afraid 
to go to Bethlehem, hence made his home in Nazareth in Galilee. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 13. in a dream — see 1 : 20 ; 2 : 22, a vision during sleep. 
Arise — "by night, " see v. 14. by night — for greater secrecy; 
travelling "by night is not uncommon in the East. v. 15. was 
there — in what part of Egypt is not known ; tradition says at 
a town near Cairo, death of Herod — in the same year of the 
flight, B. c. 4. If they returned immediately after his death, 
their stay in Egypt was only for a few months, prophet (Hos. 
11 : 1) applied first to the exodus of Israel, Ex. 4 : 21-23. v. 
16. mocked — literally, made a fool of, outwitted, wroth — an- 
gry, sent forth — probably in secret, see v. 7, hiring bands of 
assassins to do the work, children — "male children," perhaps 
25 to 75 in a small town like Bethlehem, coasts thereof — " bor- 
ders," around Bethlehem, two years and under — the time since 
the star's appearance, as told him by the magi (v. 7), was pro- 
bably less than two years, v. 17. Jeremy= Jeremiah (Jer. 31 : 
15); primarily spoken of the Babylonish captivity, v. 18. 
Rama — a fortress near Jerusalem. Rachel — mother of Benjamin, 
and representative of the bereaved mothers of Judaea, v. 
19. in a dream — the angel brought the word as promised 
in v. 13. v. 20. Israel — or of Palestine, without defining any 
particular part of it. they are dead — scriptural language is 
used (Ex. 4. 19), and it refers to Herod, v. 22. Archelaus — son 
of Herod the Great, who ruled Idumaea, Judaea and Samaria. 
afraid — for this son was much like his father in cruelty, being 
warned — implying that he had asked for direction/ parts — 
region, under the government of Herod Antipas, brother of 
Archelaus. v. 23. Nazareth — a mountain town of Galilee. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Who came from the East to seek a king? 
How were the wise men guided ? Where did Herod send 




14 people's lesson book. 

them? Whom did they find in Bethlehem? What did 
they present to Jesus ? Whither go ? Why hy another way ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

!. The Child Safe. Who again appeared to Joseph? How? 
What did the angel tell Joseph to do ? v. 13. 
How long to stay in Egypt ? Why was he 

to go there? . . . FLIGHT INTO 

What prophecy was thus fulfilled? Hos. 

11: 1. 
How did Joseph treat the command ? 

2. Herod slays the children. Who mocked 

Herod ? v. 16. 
What is meant by " mocked ?" Whom did 

he slay? v. 16. 
What prophecy did this fulfill ? Jer. 31 : 15. 
What was the prophecy ? v. 18. What was Rama ? Where 

was it ? Who was Rachel ? 

3. The Child returns. Who again warned Joseph? v. 19. 

How was he warned ? When ? 
What did the angel now direct Joseph to do? v. 20. 

Why was it now safe to do this ? 
Whither did Joseph come? v. 21. Whom bring with 

him ? Who was now ruling in Jerusalem'? v. 22. 
What was the character of Archelaus ? 
To what country did Joseph go ? How guided ? v. 22. Who 

ruled Galilee ? In what town did Joseph dwell ? v. 23. 

What was Jesus called ? v. 23. 

"WE LEAIUST FROM THIS: 

1. The safety and blessedness of obeying God. 

2. That selfish ambition may lead to great wickedness. 

3. How God guides those who trust in him. 

4. That it is right to avoid wicked rulers. 

5. That God has power over all men and things. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Describe a journey from Palestine to Egypt — how made — distance 
— time to make it — and nature of the country on the way. 

2. Give the boundaries of Galilee, its size, population; situation of 
Nazareth and distance from Jerusalem. 

3. State the facts we know about the childhood of Jesus. 



PREACHING OF JOHN! BAPTISM OF JESUS. 



15 



LESSON" 4. [A. D. 26-27. 

PREACHING OF JOHN: BAPTISM OF JESUS.— Matt. 
3 : 1-17. 



MEMORY TEXT .— I indeed baptize you with water 
unto repentance : but he that cometh after me is mightier 
than I, -whose shoes I am not worthy to bear : he shall 
baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire.— Matt. 3 : 11. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. John's Preach- 

ing. 

2. John's "Witness 

for Jesus. 

3. Baptism of 

Jesus. 



Home Readings. 

M. John's Birth Luke 1 : 1-17. 

T. John's Preaching Matt. 3 : 1-12. 

W. John's Witness John 1 : 19-30. 

Th. Repentance Luke 3 : 7-18. 

F. The Baptism Matt. 3 : 13-17. 

Sat. Baptism of the Spirit...Acts 2 : 1-12. 
S. God's Well-Beloved Son.Luke 9 : 28-36. 



Time.— -Year of Rome about 779-7S0, or A. D. 26-27. 
Places. — Juda?a, Jerusalem, Jordan, Galilee. 

Persons.— John Baptist , Isaiah, Pharisees, Sadducees, Abraham, 
Jesus. 

Rulers.— Tiberius Csesar at Eome, Pontius Pilate in Judaea, Herod 
Antipas in Galilee. 

Historical Sketch.— Beyond the one fact that Jesus was obedient 
to his parents in Nazareth, and that he vent up to Jerusalem, and con- 
versed with the doctors, Luke 2 : 40-52, nothing is known of the child- 
hood of Jesus after the return from Egypt, until the baptism by John. 
Philo, the Jewish Platonist, and Celsns', the great medical writer, were 
boys at school when Jesus began his public ministry. Seneca, the Roman 
stoic and philosopher, was in the prime of life; Lucan, the Roman poet, 
was rising in fame ; Pliny, the elder, was only a lad, unknown to fame. 

John the Baptist began to preach repentance near the river Jordan. 
Great crowds went to hear him. He reproved the Pharisees and Saddu- 
cees for their pride. Jesus came from Galilee to John, and was baptized 
by him in the Jordan. The Holy Spirit came upon Jesus in the form of 
a dove. 

LESSON .EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 1. those days— (see 2 : 23; Luke 3 : 1, 2) while Jesus 
was at home in Nazareth. John— see Bible Dictionary, wilder- 
ness — of Judsea, an uninhabited region along the Dead Sea and 
Jordan, y. 2. repent — turn from sin and accept God's grace, 



16 people's lesson book. 

see Luke 3 : 8-14 ; kingdom of heaven — reign of Messiah, 
Dan. 2 : 44; 7 : 13, 14, 18. v. 3. makes . . . straight— clear of ob- 
stacles, v. 4. raiment — see Mark 1 : 6, a loose cloak or blanket, 
woven of camel's hair ; loins — waist ; meat — food ; locusts — 
a kind of grasshopper still eaten in the East. v. 5. Jordan — 
the chief river of Palestine, 200 miles long, and flowing into the 
Dead Sea; " region round about" means those parts east of the 
river, and north, as well as those of Judaea, 
Peraea, Samaria and Galilee, v. 9. Abraham — 
as if being children of the covenant in the flesh 
would save them, see Rom. 9 : 6-8; vipers — 
poisonous snakes; thus sinners were like the 
deadly snakes, because of their wickedness, 
v. 10. axe is laid — see John 15 : 2, 6, even now 
God's judgment is coming, John 3 : 18, 19. v. 11. 
with water — in water as a sign of purity; 
mightier — in authority and power; shoes — 
sandals; to bear — see Luke 3 : 16, as a slave 
after his master; with the Holy Ghost and 
with fire — in the Holy Ghost, see Acts 2 : 2-4. 
v. 12. fan — a kind of shovel to toss up the grain 
that the wind might blow away the chaff; 
floor — a hard, beaten, circular space on Eastern 
Eastern feandal. fl^s, where the threshing was done; garner- 
granary, usually a dry vault under ground, v. 13. then — 
probably six months after the previous events, and at a different 
place, John 1 : 28, farther up the Jordan; from Galilee — his 
home; to be baptized — perhaps to identify himself with his 
people, v. 14. need to be ... of thee — John confesses he is 
not as holy and pure as Jesus, v. 15. fulfil all righteousness — do 
what custom or law would require, v. 16. heavens . . . opened 
unto him — in a vision, seen only by Jesus and John, John 1:32; 
like a dove — see Luke 3 : 22. In the vision the Spirit appeared 
to them as having the form of a dove, symbol of gentleness, 
purity and peace, v. 17, beloved — well beloved, peculiarly 
beloved. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Whither was the child Jesus taken for safety? 
By whose directions ? How did Herod seek to slay Jesus ? 
What prophecy did this fulfill? By whose direction did 
Joseph return from Egypt ? To what city ? Why did he not 
return to Bethlehem ? 





PREACHING OF JOHN: BAPTISM OF JESUS. 17 

OST THE LESSON". 

1. John's Preaching. In what region did John preach ? v. 1. 

Where is this wilderness? What did John say? v. 2. 

What is it to repent? 
For whom was a way to be prepared ? How ? y. 3. 
How was John clothed ? v. 4. What was his food ? 
Who went to hear him preach ? v. 5. What did they 

confess? v. 6. 
What religious classes came to John's baptism ? v. 7. 
How did he reprove them ? What is a viper ? Why were 

these persons like vipers ? 
What did John tell them to do? 

v. 8. What did he mean by 

this? 
What pride and boast did he 

rebuke? v. 9. 
How did he show them that judg- 
ment was at hand ? v. 10. Locust. 

2. John's Witness for Jesus. What did John's baptism 

signify? v. 11. 
Who was coming after John ? How would he baptize ? 
What would this greater one bear in his hand? v. 12. 
Where would he gather the wheat ? What would he do 

with the chaff? 
What is meant by " unquenchable fire " ? 

3. Baptism of Jesus. Who came to John from Galilee? v. 13. 
What was the purpose of Jesus in coming to John ? 
What did John sav to Jesus ? v. 14. What did he mean 

by this ? 
How did Jesus answer him ? v. 15. What did John then 

do? 
When Jesus was baptized what came upon him ? v. 16. 
What was heard? From whence? What did the voice 

say? v. 17. 

THIS TEACHES US: 

1. The great need of repentance. 

2. To show by our conduct that we have repented. 

3. That we ought to repent and be baptized. 

4. To imitate Christ in the manner and spirit of our 

obedience. 

5. To seek a baptism of the Holy Spirit. 



18 people's lesson book. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Describe the life, character, and work of John the Baptist. 

2. Give some account of the Pharisees and Sadducees. 

3. Eelate some of the chief Bible events that took place in the Jordan 

Valley. 



LESSON 5. [A. D. 27. 

THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS.— Matt. 4 : Ml. 

MEMORY TEXT —Then saith Jesus unto him, Get 
thee hence, Satan : for it is written, Thou shalt worship 
the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.— Matt. 4 : 10. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 
Three Temptations. 

1. Through the Ap- 

petites. 

2. Through Pride. 

3. Through Ambi- 

tion. 



Home Headings. 

M. Jesus and Satan Matt. 4 : 1-11. 

T. Satan Tempting Job 2 : 1-10. 

W. Christ's Command Matt. 6 : 16-21. 

Th. Not by Bread Alone Deut. 8 : 1-6. 

F. Safety Ps. 91 : 1-15. 

Sat. All things are Christ's.Jsa. 63 : 4-14. 

S. Ministering Angels Dan. 7 : 9-11. 



Time.— January, February, A. D. 27. 

Places. — Wilderness of Judaea, a mountain (tradition says it was Mt. 
Quarantana, a few miles northwest of Jericho), Jerusalem. 

Persons.— Satan, Jesus. 

Historical Sketch. — Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilder- 
ness. Satan came there to lead Jesus to sin. Jesus was hungry. Satan 
said he could turn stones into bread, but Jesus would not obey Satan. 
Then Satan asked Jesus to throw himself from the top of the temple, to 
prove that God would send angels to take care of him, but again Jesus 
would not mind Satan. Then Satan offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the 
world, if he would worship him. Again Jesus refused, and answered for 
the third time from Scripture, so Satan left him. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. Then — immediately after his baptism; led — see 
Mark 1 : 12, not by his own will, but by the spirit, v. 3. temp- 
ter—Satan, v. 4. it is written— Deut. 8:3; every word— it 
means that man is preserved by God's power, who can use any 
means he chooses, and is not limited to bread, v. 5. taketh. 



THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS. 19 

him — in spirit ; holy city — Jerusalem, called holy because it 
had the temple ; pinnacle — literally, " wing ;" also applied to 
a pointed roof. v. 6. it is written — Ps. 91 : 11, 12. v. 7. writ- 
ten again — Deut. 6 : 16 ; Lord thy God — in each case Jesus 
answers Satan from the book of Deuteronomy. Xo wonder 
that Satan prompts men to discredit such a book, v. 8. exceed- 
ing high mountain — this view must have been partly by sug- 
gestion, for no existing mountain could be high enough to give 
a view of " all the kingdoms of the world ;" all the king- 
doms — as in a vision, see Luke 4:4; glory — riches, power, v. 
9. these things — kingdoms with their glory ; will I give — by 
this the tempter reveals himself as the "ruler of this world," 
but falsely so, and as a usurper, v. 10. Get thee hence — " be- 
gone ;" an imperative command; it is written — Deut. 6 : 13, 
14, Jesus quotes it freely, not literally, v. 11. leave th him — 
for the time, see Luke 4 : 13 ; angels — spiritual messengers of 
God, Heb. 1 : 14 ; Luke 22 : 43 ; ministered nnto him — per- 
haps with food, as they did to Elijah, 1 Kings 19 : 5-7. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — In what region did John the Baptist preach. ? 
What was the chief topic of his preaching? What classes 
did he severely reprove ? For what ? What did he say of 
Jesus ? Why did he hesitate to baptize Jesus ? Wbat did 
the voice from heaven say ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. First Temptation. Whither was Jesus led after his baptism? 

v. 1. By whom? For what purpose? Why was Jesus 

tempted"? Heb. 2 : 18. 
How manv days did Jesus fast ? v. 2. What is meant bv 

fast ? Who" fasted forty days in Sinai ? Ex. 34 : 28, 29. ■ 
Who came to Jesus then ? v. 3. Who is the tempter ? 
Why would it have been wrong to change stones into bread 

at Satan's request ? 
What made this suggestion a temptation to Jesus ? See v. 2. 
What answer did Jesus give? v. 4. Where are these 

words written ? Deut. 8 : 3. 

2. Second Temptation. Whither did the devil then take 

Jesus ? v. 5. To wbat city ? 
Where did he place him ? Meaning of "pinnacle" ? 
What did the devil urge him to do ? v. 6. Why? 



20 people's lesson book. 

Where are the words quoted by the devil written ? Ps. 91 : 11. 
How did Jesus again answer him ? v. 7. Where are the 

words written ? Deut. 6 : 16. 
What is meant here by " tempt " ? 
3. Third Temptation. Whither did the devil next take 

him? v. 8. 
What did he show him ? In what way probably? 
What promise him ? What ask Jesus to do ? v. 9. 
To whom do the kingdoms of this world truly belong ? 
How did Jesus again answer ? v. 10. Where is this answer 

written? Deut. 6 : 13, 14. 
How did this apply to what Satan had said ? 
After this answer what did the devil do ? v. 11. 
Who came to Jesus ? Who keeps us from the assaults of 

Satan ? 

WE LEARN: 

1. That Jesus suffered from hunger and thirst. 

2. That Jesus was sorely temped of the devil. 

3. Hence that he can truly sympathize with us in our 

temptations. 

4. That the devil knows and can use Scripture for evil 

ends. 

5. How to resist Satan's temptations with God's word. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Relate Bible instances of the temptations of good men. 

2. Write out ten Bible texts showing that Satan tempts men to sin. 

3. Write out this narrative in your own words. 



lesson 6. [a. d. 27. 

JESUS BEGINS HIS MINISTRY.— Matt. 4 : 13-25. 

• © 



LESSON OULINE. 

1. Jesus Preaching. 

2. Jesus Calling his 

Disciples. 

3. Jesus Healing. 



Home Readings. 

M. Ministry of Jesus Matt. 4 : 13-25*. 

T. Calling Disciples Matt. 10 : 1-15. 

W. Following Jesus Mark 2 : 14-28. 

Th. Choosing Ps. 119 : 57-72. 

F. The Twelve Mark 3 : 13-21. 

Sai. Teaching ...John 10:1-21. 

S. Work of Christ Isa. 61 : 1-11. 



JESUS BEGINS HIS MINISTKY. 21 

MEMORY TEXT.— Prom that time Jesus began to 
preach, and to say, Repent : for the kingdom of heaven 
is at hand. — Matt. 4 : 17. 

Time. — After the Passover in April, year of Rome 780 and A. D. 27. 

Places. — Galilee, Nazareth, Capernaum, Zebulun, Naphtali, Beth- 
saida, Judaea, Persea, beyond Jordan, Decapolis. 

Persons. — Jesus, John the Baptist, Isaiah, Peter, Andrew, James, 
John, Zebedee. 

Rulers.— Tiberius Caesar at Rome, Pontius Pilate in Judaea, Herod 
Antipas in Galilee. 

Connecting Links. — Jesus began his active ministry when John 
was about closiug his preaching. The first public act of Jesus' ministry 
was his baptism. Then he gained disciples, see John 1 : 35-57, and soon 
after worked his first miracle at Cans, of Galilee; went to Jerusalem: 
met Nicodemus, John 2 : 13-25 and 3 : 1-38, and alter John was cast into 
prison, retired to Galilee, to enter upon his more active ministry there. 
Matthew now relates events connected with this Galilean ministry of 
Jesus. 

When Jesus heard that John the Baptist was cast into prison he went 
into Galilee. There he began to preach and to say, Repent, for the king- 
dom of heaven is at hand. This was what John the Baptist had said. 
Jesus called four fishermen to follow him and help him in his work. He 
taught the people in their synagogues or churches. He healed the sick, 
he had power over demons or wicked spirits, and cured all kinds of 
diseases ; so great multitudes followed him. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 12. John was cast into prison — by Herod Antipas, 
because John had reproved him for sin, Mark 6 : 17, 18. v. 13. 
dwelt in Capernaum — hence it is called "his own city." It 
was near the line between the land of Zebulun and Naphtali. 
v. 16. saw great light. The prophecy quoted is remarkable. 
It tells of the birth of Jesus. This part tells of salvation for 
the Gentiles, read Isa. 9 : 1-7. v. 17. Eepent — Jesus took up the 
word of John, see Matt. 3:1,2. John now in prison ; Jesus 
begins more active labors, v. 18. sea of Galilee — about twelve 
miles long by six wide, with many towns on its shores, two 
brethren — or "two brothers." fishers — fishing was a common 
calling for men about Bethsaida. v. 19. fishers of men — to get 
souls into God's kingdom, v. 20. straightway — they were 
ready at once, for they had seen Jesus before, see John 1 : 
40, 41. v. 21. James . . . John — as Andrew and Peter two 
brothers had been called, so these two brothers are called, v. 22. 
followed him — at once like Peter and Andrew, v. 23. synagogues 
—Jewish places of worship and religious teaching, gospel — 
means God's spell, or good spell, that is, good news ; the king- 



22 people's lesson book. 

dom of God was at hand, healing — those miracles of healing 
were to attest the preaching of Jesus, v. 24. lunatic — epilepsy 
or falling sickness ; palsy — may include various nervous diseases, 
rendering the subjects helpless, v. 25. multitudes — Jesus be- 
came very popular in all that region. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — How long and where did Jesus fast after his 
baptism ? By whom was he tempted ? In how many ways ? 
State the first temptation. The second. The third tempta- 
tion. From what Bible book did Jesus take his answers? 
Who comforted him after these temptations ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

I. Jesus Preaching. What did Jesus hear about John ? v. 12. 
From what city did he go ? v. 13. To what city ? 
What prophecy was thus fulfilled? v. 14. Where is it 

found ? Isa. 9:1,2. . n w ^ 

What did the prophet foretell ? vs. 15, f OU-UW M £ 

16. What people are meant by it? \ 

Why was it a dark region ? What j 

was the light that had sprung up ? ] 

What is now said of heathen lands ? I 

What is Jesus called in John 7 : 12? J 

What had John the Baptist preached ? j 

How had his ministry come to an j 

end? 
What did Jesus preach? Where? v. 17. What was the 

reputation of the Galileans? (Ignorant and unlearned 

people.) 
What were the names of the two brothers Jesus first 

called? v. 18. 
What did he say to them ? v. 19. 
Who were next called? v. 21. With whom were these 

two, and what were they doing? 
How did these four treat the call ? vs. 20, 22. 
In what places did Jesus preach in Galilee? v. 23. For 

what were the synagogues generally used ? 
Who were brought to Jesus to be healed ? v. 24. 
How far did the fame of Jesus extend ? v. 25. To what 




THE BEATITUDES. 23 

other works did this lead ? Wke followed him ? What 
lessons could they learn from Jesus' miracles ? What 
can we learn from this part of his history. 

WE LEAE3ST: 

1. That Jesus and John preach repentance. 

2. How Jesus loves to have those called follow him at 

once. 

3. The value of going into the sanctuary. 

4. The power of Jesus to heal. 

5. How Jesus, sought the people before they sought him. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Describe the sea of Galilee, size, depression — hills and towns about it. 

2. Write a brief account of Christ's ministry before this event (talk 
with Xicodemus — woman at well — his miracle at Cana, &c). 

3. Write a narrative of this lesson. 



LESSON 7 [A. D. 28. 

THE BEATITUDES.— Matt. 5 : 1-16. 

MEMORY TEXT.— Let your light so shine before men, 
that they may see your good works, and glorify your 
Father which is in heaven.— Matt. 5 : 16. 



LESSON OUTLINE. ■ Home Headings. 

-. ht- -« J.-J. |JK Beatitudes Matt. 5 : 1-16. 

1. .Nine Beatitudes. L Thirsty Supplied Isa. 55 : 1-9. 

_ _, . j W. Pureness of Heart Uohn 3 : 1-8. 

2. Character and J ?%. PersecutionbeforeChrist.Heb.il. 
F. Persecution after Christ.Acts 7 : 51-60. 

SaL Sweetened with Salt 2 K'gs 2 : 19-22. 

S. The Christian's Light...l John 2 : 1-11. 



"Work of Disci- 
ples. 



Time. — Midsummer, year of Rome, 781, or A. D. 28. 

Place. — A mountain in Galilee. Tradition points to the "Horns of 
Hattin " two peaks in a ridge a few miles southwest of Capernaum as the 
place, see " People's Commentary on Matthew." 

Persons. — Jesus, Disciples and people. 

Introductory Sketch. — After the temptation of Jesus, there fol- 
lowed in succession the events recorded in John 1 : 29 to 4 : 54 ; then those 



24 



PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK. 



in Matt. 4 : 12, etc. (Mark 1 : 14 ; Luke 4 : 14.) Having heard of the Bap- 
tist's imprisonment, Jesus goes to labor in Galilee, making circuits of its 
towns and villages. During one of these circuits he preached the Sermon 
on the Mount. Many harmonists regard this sermon as following the 
call of the twelve, and that several of the events narrated in chaps. 8, 9, 
10, and 12 occurred before this sermon was given. As Luke gives an ac- 
count of a sermon about this time somewhat different (Luke 6 : 20-49), 
from that in Matt., chaps. 5 to 7, some suppose that there really were two 
separate discourses, or that the same discourse was repeated on two 
separate occasions. It is probable, however, that these are only two dif- 
ferent accounts of the same discourse. 



LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. multitudes — see 4 : 25; a mountain — "the moun- 
tain," tradition says, " horns of Hattin." he was set — the usual 
position of teachers in the East (Acts 22 : 3). v. 3. poor in 
spirit — who feel their spiritual needs (Isa. 57 : 15). v. 4. mourn 
— (Isa. 61 : 1-3), from a sense of their spiritual poverty (2 Cor. 

7 : 10) ; comforted— (2 Cor. 4 : 
17, 18). v. 5. meek— (Ps. 37 : 
11), those who patiently en- 
dure to the end ; the earth — 
or "the land" (1 Cor. 3 :22; 
Rev. 11 : 15). v. 6. hunger 
and thirst— (Ps. 145 : 18), 
figurative for intense longing ; 
righteousness — better " the 
righteousness " the only true 
and real ; filled — satisfied by 
having it given to them in 
Christ, v. 7. merciful — (Ps. 
41 : 1, 2), in thought, word, 
and deed; obtain mercy — 
now and hereafter, v. 8. pure 
in heart — Ps. 24 : 3, 4; see 
Acts 15 : 9 and 1 Tim. 1 : 5. 
v. 9. peacemakers— (Ps. 34 : 
14), " they that work peace " 
in all conduct and life ; chil- 
Eastern Lamp Stand.^ dren f God— (Rom. 8 : 15, 17 ; 

Gal. 4 : 7). v. 10. is sometimes counted with the summing up of 
the seven previous beautitudes. v. 11. revile — reproach and 
ridicule; for my sake — see v. 10. v. 12. rejoice — (Acts 5 : 41) ; 
reward in heaven — (Bev. 7 : 9-17). The reward is not earned, 
but a gift of grace ; for so . . . prophets — (Acts 7 : 52 ; Heb. 




THE BEATITUDES. 25 

11 : 35-37), another reason for rejoicing, y. 13. salt — (Mark 9 : 
50), preserves from corruption and decay ; savour — pungency ; by 
mixture with earth and other impurities, salt becomes insipid 
and worthless; shall it — the salt, not the earth, v. 14. light of 
the world — in Christ, reflecting his light (John 1:9; 8 : 12; 
Eph. 5:8; Phil. 2:15). v. 15. candle — or "lamp;" small 
earthen vessel with a wick floating in oil; bushel — literally, 
" measure," a Roman dry measure holding a little less than a 
peck; candlestick — or "lamp stand;" the upturned "bushel" 
might be used as such. v. 16. good works — (Gal. 5 : 22, 23; 
1 Cor. 13). The Christian's good works glorify God on the earth. 

QUESTIONS. 

FOP Review. — What did Jesus hear about John ? Whither 
did he go? What preach? What classes heal ? What four 
brothers call? Give their names. What would he make 
these disciples do? Matt. 4 : 19. 

OlSr THE LESSON. 

I. Nine Beatitudes. — When he saw the multitudes to what 
place did Jesus go? v. 1. Who followed him? Who 
are meant by his disciples ? What position did he take ? 
What is this discourse usually called ? ( The Sermon on 
the Mount.) Why? How many times is the word 
"Blessed" repeated in this lesson? Can you recite 
these nine "Blesseds," or "Beatitudes"? Becite the 
first. 

Who are described in the first "beatitude"? v. 3. What 
is it to be poor in spirit? How does this differ from 
poverty ? 

Becite the second "beatitude." v. 4. Who belong under 
the second "beatitude"? What kind of mourning is 
meant ? 

What class come under the third "beatitude"? v. 5. 
Who was the meekest man? What blessing have the 
meek ? 

How are those under the fourth "beatitude" described? v. 6. 

What class come under the fifth " beatitude " ? v. 7. 
What reward will they have ? 

To whom does the sixth " beatitude belong ? v. 8. Whom 
will the pure in heart see ? 



26 people's lesson book. 

What class is described in the seventh "beatitude" ? v. 9. 
What are they called ? 

What other class does Jesus call " Blessed " ? v. 10. What 
will they possess ? 

Who besides those persecuted for righteousness' sake are 
called " Blessed" ? v. 11. For whose sake are they said 
to suffer? How many " Blesseds," or "Beatitudes" does 
this make ? 
2. Character and Work of Disciples. — Who are called on to 
rejoice in v. 12? What two reasons are given for rejoic- 
ing ? Where will each receive a reward ? 

Why are Christians compared to salt? v. 13. How can 
they lose their savor? How does this apply to incon- 
sistent Christians? 

How are they the light of the world ? v. 14. What is 
meant by " bushel " ? By " candlestick " ? 

What is the purpose and duty of Christians as a light ? v. 16. 
Where should our light shine? Who are to see our 
light ? Whom will they be led to glorify ? From whom 
does the Christians' light come ? 

THINK : 

1. To which of these classes of the blessed do you be- 

long ? 

2. Do you belong to more than one class ? 

3. Is there Christian " salt " in your life ? 

4. Does your light shine for the glory of God ? 

5. Has your example led any to follow Christ ? 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write out each beatitude with some reference to a similar thought 
found in the Old Testament. (See People's Commentary.) 

2. Give other Bible references to salt as a purifier or savor. 

3. Give other Scriptural passages in regard to light as a type of purity 
and holiness. 



THE "BLESSEDS" OF JESUS. 

1. Poor in spirit. 6. Pure in heart. 

2. They that mourn. 7. Peacemakers. 

3. The meek. 8. Persecuted for righteousness' 

4. Hunger and thirst, &c. sake. 

5. The merciful. 9. Persecuted for Christ's sake. 



JESUS AND THE LAW. 27 

LESSON 8. [A. D. 28. 

JESUS AND THE LAW.— Matt. 5 : 17-26. 

MEMORY TEXT— Think not that I am come to de- 
stroy the law, or the prophets : I am not come to destroy, 
but to fulfil —Matt. 5 : 17. 

© 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Law Perma- 

nent. 

2. Law of Murder. 

3. Law of Forgive- 

ness. 



Home Readings. 

M. Jesus and the Law Matt. 5 : 17-26. 

T. New Commandment John 15 : 9-17. 

W. Keep the Law James 2 : 8-18. 

Th. Pharisees' Eight eousnessMark 2 : 15-28. 

F. Love your Brother 1 John 4 : 9-21. 

Sat. Be Reconciled Matt. 18: 21-35. 

S. Christ Paid our Debt.... Rom. 5 : 6-16. 



© © 

Time, Places, and Persons. — The same as in Lesson 7. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — This lesson is a part of the Sermon on 
the Mount, and explains the spiritual nature of the kingdom of heaven. 
Jesus as its leader did not come to destroy the law, but to have the law fid- 
filled in the highest and in its spiritual sense. 

Some persons think that we keep the law when we do nothing bad, 
but Jesus shows us that the law reaches to our thought. If we intend to 
do wrong we break the law. If we are angry with another, we break 
the sixth commandment. If we do not forgive others who wrong us, we 
break the law. God will not forgive us if we have an unforgiving spirit. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 17. destroy — set aside, annul; law . . . prophets — 
two great parts of the Jewish Scripture, v. 18. jot . . . tittle 
— "jot" or "rod " refers to the smallest Hebrew letter, and tittle 
is the little "horn" or turn of the pen that distinguishes some 
Hebrew letters ; from the law — from its authority and binding 
force, v. 19. least commandment — what seems the smallest 
duty, as the jot and tittle, are in the writing of the same. v. 
20. exceed — "be better than/' not only in degree, but in kind. 
v. 21. by them of old time — or "to them;" the ancients; Thou 
shalt not kill — this is God's absolute law, Ex. 20 : 13; the rest 
was added by the scribes; danger — liable, amenable to. v. 22. 
judgment . . . council . . . hell fire — as here used by Christ, 
refer to the spiritual judgment and punishment by God in his 
kingdom; Raca — " empty;" a term of scornful contempt, per- 
haps technically referring to heretics ; fool — a term of scornful 




28 people's lesson book. 

contempt for one as wicked and lost. With these verses com- 
pare 7 : 1-3. v. 23. therefore — such being the danger of bitter 
feeling ; gift — Deut. 16 : 16, 17, for sacrifice ; the altar — the 
offerings were brought to the railing and handed to the priests 

to offer. The rabbis taught 
that nothing whatever might 
interrupt the offering; 
aught against thee — not 
thou against him ; "aught," 
any complaint whatever, 
v. 24. reconciled — not only 
by forgiving him, but by 
Altar (from the Mishna). removing the cause of of- 

fence and obtaining his forgiveness, v. 25. adversary — an 
opponent in a matter of law; in the way — see Luke 12 : 58 : 
judge — magistrate ; officer — whose office it was to execute sen 
tence. v. 26. farthing — the translation of two Greek words: 
one, a coin worth about a cent and a half; the other, about half 
a cent ; the latter is here meant. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What is this discourse of Jesus usually 
called ? Who were with Jesus when he preached it ? With 
what does it begin ? How many and what classes does he 
call blessed? To what two things are disciples compared? 
vs. 13, 14. Eecite the " Memory Text " of the last lesson. 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Law Permanent. — What had Jesus not come to de- 

stroy ? v. 17. What is meant by the law and the pro- 
phets ? What had he come to do ? 

What did he say of the permanency of the law? v. 18. 
What is meant by "jot " ? By " tittle " ? 

Who will be least in the kingdom of heaven ? v. 19. Who 
will be great ? What is meant by this ? What was the 
righteousness of the scribes and Pharises ? 23 : 23-28. 
How must our righteousness be as compared with theirs? 
What if it does not exceed theirs ? v. 20. 

2. Law Of Murder. — What was God's law about murder ? v. 21. 

What human addition had been made to it ? With what 
effect ? In which commandment is this law ? 
In what does murder consist, according to Christ ? v. 22. 



THE LAW OF PURITY IN THOUGHT AND SPEECH. 



29 



To what does Jesus say a man who hates his brother may 
be liable? v. 22. What is meant by "brother" ? The 
meaning of " Kaca" ? Of " Thou fool " ? 
3. Law of Forgiveness. — What command is given in vs. 23, 
24 ? What is the meaning of " reconciled," in v. 24 ? Than 
what even is it more important? Kemembering our 
offence against another, what is our duty before anything 
else? W hat is the manner of reconciliation required? 
W T hat direction is given in v. 25 ? What is meant by 
"agree"? By "adversary"? What if we do not do 
this? 
How long would the prisoner be held ? v. 26. What was 
the value of a farthing ? 

WE LEARN THAT: 

1. Christ fulfilled the law. — 

2. The moral law is good for all time. 

3. False teaching is a great sin. 

4. It is more important to seek forgiveness of an of- 

fended brother than to offer a gift in the sanctuary. 

5. It is better to settle matters in dispute than to be 

forced into law about them. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some account of the divisions of the Old Testament by the 
Hebrews. 

2. State some ways in which Jesus fulfilled the law. 

3. Note some of the steps which lead to murder. 



LESSON 9. 



[A. D. 28. 



THE LAW OF PURITY EN THOUGHT AND SPEECH. 

Matt. 5 : 27-37. 
© © O 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. About Purity. 

2. About Divorce. 

3. About Swearing. 



o 



Home Headings. 



M. Law explained Jas. 2 : 8-18. 

T. Avoid sin 1 Cor. 10 : 23-33. 

W. Evil of sin Ps. 51. 

Th. Marriage Sacred Matt. 19 : 3-9. 

F. Love Fulfills the Law..Eom. 13 : 8-14. 

Sat. Puritv Matt. 5 : 27-37. 

S. Speak the Truth Eph. 4 : 20-32. 



j 



30 people's lesson book. 

MEMORY TEXT— But let your communication be, 
Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is 'more than these 
Cometh of evil.— Matt. 5 : 37. 

Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 7. 

Lesson Sketch. — The seventh commandment forbids impure 
thought, as well as impure acts. And Jesus further teaches, that what- 
ever is a cause or occasion of sin must be cast off. The law of purity 
requires a sacred regard for the marriage vow. Jesus corrects false views 
of the third commandment. It forbids profane and unnecessary oaths, 
as well as swearing falsely, and declares that the truth requires the 
simple yea and nay only. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 27. Ye have heard — not once but many times ; "by them 
of old time — literally " the ancients, " omitted in the Revised 
Version ; thou shalt not commit adultery — see Ex. 20 : 14, the 
rabbis explained this as forbidding the sinful act merely, not 
seeing that the outward act has its moral character from the 
motive, the inward purpose of the heart, v. 28. to lust — im- 
plies impure and sinful desire, v. 29 "offend," or "causeth 
thee to stumble," to sin; pluck it out — a literal command if it be 
impossible to avoid sin otherwise ; better lose an eye than to lose 
the soul. v. 30. profitable — it is a gain for a person to lose an 
eye, or a hand, or both, if by so doing and only so sin may 
be avoided, and the soul saved. Self-mutilation, or torture 
is not taught as a duty; but whatever forces to sin must be 
sacrificed; hell— Greek "gehenna." v. 31. It hath been 
said — see Deut. 24 : 1. A Mosaic permission; not the highest, 
divine rule. Even this permission had given rise to abuses, 
and to breaking up family ties. So Jesus states the only ground 
of divorce, v. 33. forswear thyself — swear falsely, Lev. 19 : 
12; shalt perform— Num. 30 : 2; Deut. 23 : 23. The rabbis, 
clinging to the letter of this law, taught that oaths in which 
God's name was not used were not binding v. 34. Swear 
not at all — in the manner specified. This does not absolutely 
forbid the taking of oaths in a legal sense, which would be 
" destroying " the law; it says oaths should not be necessary 
to the Christian; by heaven, etc. — all these forms of oaths, and 
many others, were in constant use in Christ's time. v. 35. 
footstool — Isa. 66 : 1 ; city of the great King — Ps. 48 : 2, of 
David, with reference to his greater Son, the only true King, 
Christ. None of these can be pledged in an oath, because not 
ours nor under our control, and for the reason in v. 37. v. 36. 
canst not make — we cannot control our bodily changes ; they 



THE LAW OF PURITY IN THOUGHT AND SPEECH. 31 

are God's ; in appealing to them, therefore, vre appeal to God. 
v. 37. communication — our assertions and denials ; Yea . . . 
Nay — James 5 : 12, a Christian's word must be sacred. 

QUESTIONS; 

For Review. — What did Jesus say he came to fulfil ? What 
must a disciple's righteousness exceed ? Which command- 
ment forbids murder ? What does Jesus say about this law ? 
v. 22. What is more important than making an offering to 
the Lord? v. 24. 

OlST THE LESSON. 

1. About Purity. — Which commandment does Jesus quote in 

v. 27 ? How did the rabbis explain this command ? 
How does Jesus explain it ? v. 28. 
What does Jesus say of an eye that offends ? v. 29. What 

does " offend" mean here? Why is it better to lose the 

eye? 
What is said of the right hand ? v. 30. Why was this 

better ?_ 

2. About Divorce. — What was the Mosaic permission about 

putting away a wife ? How had it been abused ? (See 
People's Commentary.) What did Jesus teach about the 
sacredness of marriage? v. 32. 

3. About Swearing. — What was the old law about oaths? 

v. 33. i How had it been perverted ? Matt. 23 : 18-22. 
What did Jesus teach in vs. 34 and 35? What place 

was "the city of the great King"? 
What should our speech be? v. 37. Why? What is the 

danger if more is said ? 

THE LESSONS FOE US ARE : 

1. Perverting God's command is dangerous.— 2 Pet. 3 : 16. 

2. The heart must be kept from impure thought. 

3. Easy divorce implies sin and sinful laws. 

4. Profane swearing is a great sin ; all our words should 

be simple and truthful. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Why we should avoid impure books, papers, and pictures. 

2. To what the habits of young persons who add needlesss asseverations 
to their statements may lead, and why. 

3. The blessings of a home, and the sacredness of family life. 



32 people's lesson book. 

LESSON 10. [A. D. 28. 

LOVE REQUIRED BY THE LAW.— Matt. 5 : 38-48. 

MEMORY" TEXT— Be ye therefore perfect, even as 
your Father which is in heaven is perfect.— Matt. 5 : 48. 



c 

LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Of Retaliation. 

2. Of Love 

@ 1 


» © 

Home Readings. 

M. Law of Love Matt. 5 : 38-48. 

T. Good for Evil Rom. 12 : 14-21. 

W. Give Freely... 2 Cor. 9 : 5-15. 

Th. Jewish Laws Lev. 19 : 12-18. 

F. Love your Enemies... Luke 6 : 27-36. 
Sat. Be like God 1 John 3 : 1-11. 


S. Lovemaketh Perfect..l John 4 : 12-21. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 7. 

Lesson Sketch. — Jesus states the true meaning of the law, and 
how it is to be applied in particular cases. The law of retaliation as 
originally given is that the penalty be in exact proportion to the offence, 
but only upon public trial of the offender. It was not allowed in per- 
sonal revenge. This law had been perverted to justify private revenge 
and an unforgiving spirit. Jesus teaches that it is better to give up a 
legal right, and even to suffer injury, than to contend for it in a re- 
vengeful spirit. He gives three cases : (1) personal injury, smiting; (2) 
injury in respect to property, law suits ; (3) as to personal liberty, and 
compulsory service. He applies the same rule also to giving : explains 
that the law of love extends to all men ; tells us how Christians may show 
that they are children of their Father, and how they may become like 
their heavenly Father. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 38. eye for an eye — found in Ex. 21 : 24. v. 39. Resist 
not evil — taking personal revenge increases evil ; see Rom. 12 : 
19-21 ; render not evil for evil. Three illustrations ; [1] smite 
thee — personal injury; not to strike back. v. 40. [2] sue thee 
at the law — better suffer wrong than to contend ; take away — 
as a pledge for the debt ; the law allowed this, Ex. 22 : 26 ; coat 
the inner garment, having sleeves, and reaching to the knees ; 
cloak — a mantle worn over the coat, often used as a blanket at 
night, hence it might not be kept as a pledge after sunset, v. 41. 
compel — [3] injury as to personal liberty. Rather than refuse 
in an angry spirit go with him " twain," two miles.- v. 42. bor- 
row — the law required them to lend, Deut. 15 : 8-11 ; a merciful 
provision for the relief of the poor. v. 43. neighbor— by this 
the Jews meant their own people only. Jesus applied it to all 



LOVE KEQUIRED BY THE LAW. 



33 



men, Luke 10 : 29-37 ; love thy neighbor— is the law, Lev. 19 : 
18; hate thine enemy — a false infer- 
ence from the law, for they meant every 
Gentile, v. 44. Love your enemies — ■ 
kindness not revenge, is required to- 
wards all men; bless . . . hate you — 
the Revised Version omits this clause; 
persecute — wickedly try to injure, v. 

45. that ye may 'be the children — 
This was the spirit of the master, and 
if it is yours then are ye children, v. 

46. love you — loving and saluting 
friends only, we do no more than even 
the worst of men; publicans — see 
Diet. v. 48. Be ye therefore perfect — 
be complete in your sphere, work, and character, as your heav- 
enly Father is complete in his. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — How did Jesus explain the seventh com- 
mandment? v. 28. What is to be done with an eye or 
hand that causes us to sin? vs. 29, 30. What does Jesus 
teach about divorce? v. 32. How explain the law about 
oaths? vs. 34-36. What should our speech be ? v. 37. 

OlST THE LESSOR". 




Eastern salutation. 



by 



1. Of Retaliation.— What was the law of retaliation? v. 38. 

How had it been perverted ? 
What did Jesus command? v. 39. What is meant 

"resist not"? 
State the three illustrations in vs. 39-41 . What was the 

law as to taking a " cloak " for a pledge ? 
What does Jesus teach about lending ? v. 42. 

2. Of Love. — What was the old law about love to a neighbor ? 

v. 43. How perverted ? Whom did the Jew call his 

neighbor ? Whom his enemy ? 
What does Jesus say of this law ? v. 44. Why are we to 

do good to enemies ? 
How does God treat the evil ? v. 45. 

How do the evil act toward those that love them ? vs. 46, 47. 
Y\ho is held up as our example? v. 48. How are we to 

be perfect ? 



34 people's lesson book. 

PRACTICAL LESSONS: 

1. Better suffer wrong than to revenge wrong. 

2. God gives us when we ask ; we ought to give the 

needy when they ask of us. 

3. The love of Christ should make us love our enemies. 

4. Loving enemies shows that we are the children of 

God. 

5. "We ought to be like Christ. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. The danger of indulging in a revengeful spirit. 

2. Bible instances of returning good for evil. 

3. Describe or name some of the graces of character that will make us 
like Christ. 



LESSON" 11. [A. D. 28. 

GIVING AND PRAYING.— Matt. 6 : 1—15. 

COMMIT TO MEMORY.— Our Father which art in 
heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy 
will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this 
day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we for- 
give our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but 
deliver us from evil : For thine is the kingdom, and the 
power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.— Matt. 6 : 9-13. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. True Giving. 

2. True Prayer. 

3. The Model 

Prayer. 



Home Headings. 

3f. How Give and Pray....Matt. 6 : 1-15. 

T. All Things known Matt. 25 : 31-46. 

W. False and True Pr'yi'g.Luke 11 : 1-13. 

Th, Heathen Prayers 1 K'gs 18 : 25-29. 

F. God our Father Heb. 1 : 1-14. 

Sat. Ask & it shall be given. Luke 11 : 1-13. 

S. Power & Glory for ev'r.Pev. 4 : 1-11. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 7. 

Lesson Sketch. — In the three preceding lessons Jesus taught what 
we ought to do. Now he shows from what motive we ought to act. We 
should give not for display, but from true love to God and man. We 
should pray not to be seen of men, but from the heart. He then gives a 
model prayer, commonly called the " Lord's Prayer," and urges the need 
of having a forgiving spirit. 



GIVING AND PRAYING. 35 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 1. alms — or " righteousness," as the Greek "word here 
probably means " righteousness " in the largest sense, of which 
alms are only a part. v. 2. thine alms — simply " alms ;" a dif- 
ferent Greek word from that in v. 1 ; sound & trumpet — to at- 
tract attention; hypocrites — originally meant actors in the 
theatre ; here religious pretenders ; they have — the names of 
large givers were publicly announced in the synagogue, v. 3. 
let not thy left hand — a figure of speech to express modesty 
and simplicity in giving, v. 5. when thou prayest — or " when 
ye pray;" thou shalt not — "be not;" standing — (see Rev. 
Yer.) a common posture in prayer, 1 Sam. 1 : 26; Mark 11 : 25; 
Luke 18 : 11, 13. They are not blamed for the posture, but for 
the display; synagogues . . . corners — the most public and 
frequented places, v. 6. closet — or "inner chamber;" shut 
thy door — public prayer is not condemned, but praying to be 
seen. v. 7. vain repetitions — as if there were merit in the 
length of a prayer. This was expressly taught by some rabbis 
(see People's Commentary on Matthew, ch. 23 : 14) ; as the 
heathen — or " Gentiles " (see Eeadings for Thursday), v. 9. 
After this manner — " thus," for example ; which art — who art ; 
hallowed — kept holy, sanctified, in thought and speech, v. 10. 
kingdom — reign and rule; will be done — freely, voluntarily; 
in earth as ... in heaven — or, " as in heaven, so on earth." 
v. 11. daily bread — literally " our bread of subsistence ;" need- 
ful for our support; not only "bread," but "food" in general. 
v. 12. debts — sins, trespasses; as we forgive— or "have for- 
given ;" it implies a willingness on our part to be forgiving. 
v. 13. evil — spiritual and physical, conflict with which is 
"temptation;" for thine . . . ever — see Luke 11 : 2-4. The 
doxology of the prayer was perhaps added to the text at a 
later date. It is omitted in the Re vised Version, v. 14. for- 
give — vs. 14, 15, explain verse 12 more fully, and teach more 
explicitly that we must forgive, if we are to be forgiven. 



QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the old law of retaliation? What 
did Jesus teach on this subject? Matt. 5 : 39-41. Whom 
did the Jews mean by neighbor? By enemy? What did 
Jesus say of our duty to our enemies ? If we did this whom 
would we be like ? 



36 people's lesson book. 

ON THE LESSOBT. 

1. True Giving. — Against what does Jesus warn us in v. 1 ? 

What is meant by "alms" in this verse? Why should 
we avoid display in religion ? From whom is the reward 
of piety to come ? 

What are we to avoid in giving? v. 2. What is the 
meaning of "alms" in v. 2? What is said of the hypo- 
crites in this verse ? What is it to be a hypocrite ? 

What is said in v. 3? What is meant by not letting one 
hand know what the other does ? How should our giv- 
ing be done ? 

2. True Prayer. — Who will reward us? v. 4. 

Against what are we warned with reference to praying in v. 5 ? 
Where and how are we directed to pray in v. 6 ? What is 

meant by " closet " ? Does this forbid public prayer? 
What does Jesus say of the heathen ways of praying in 

v. 7 ? Is it wrong to use the same words or forms of 

prayer ? What is meant then ? 
Why should we not be like the heathen? v. 8. Why then 

is it right and needful to pray? 
W T hat is meant by " after this manner " in v. 9 ? 
Repeat the Lord's Prayer. 
How many petitions are there in it ? Six. 
What is the character of the first three ? 
Of the last three? 
What is meant by " hallowed " ? By " thy name " ? By 

"kingdom"? By "daily bread" ? By "debts"? By 

" as we forgive " ? 
Does God ever tempt man to sin ? James 1:13. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. The true motive of beneficence. 

2. False and true modes of prayer. 

3. "What we should pray for. 

4. The character of true forgiveness. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Where, by whom, and on what occasions were some notable prayers 
recorded in the Old Testament uttered ? 

2. Give some account of similar prayers as recorded in the New Testa- 
ment. 

3. Cite some instances of godly giving noted in Scripture. 



FASTING AND HEAVENLY MINDEDNESS. 



37 



LESSON" 12. [A. D. 28. 

FASTING AND HEAVENLY MINDEDNESS. 

Matt. 6 : 16-24. 

MEMOEY TEXT— But lay up for yourselves treasures 
in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and 
where thieves do not breakthrough nor steal: For where 
your treasure is, there will your heart be also.— Matt. 6 : 20, 21. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. How to Fast. 

2. How and Where 

to lay up Treas- 
ures. 



Home Readings. 

M. Acceptable Fast Isa. 5S : 8-12. 

T. Earthly Treasure James 5 : 1-6. 

W. Heavenly Treasure....l Tim. 6 : 17-21. 

Th. Keeping'the Heart Ps. 62 : 1-10. 

F. Light and Life Prov. 20 : 20-28. 

Sat. Spiritual Darkness Jude 3-13. 

S. Spiritual Light Matt. 6 : 16-24. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 7. 

Lesson Sketch. — Jesus having taught that we should give and pray 
without display, now teaches that we should fast, not to be seen of men, 
but of God. Our hearts are to be upon heavenly things. We are not to 
hoard earthly treasures, but to lay up treasures in heaven. To be worldly 
minded is sin ; to be heavenly minded is life and peace. We cannot love 
riches and love God ; we cannot serve Satan and the Saviour. Serving 
the devil will make our hearts dark with sin; serving Christ will make 
them light with his righteousness. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 16. hypocrites — see Diet. ; sad countenance — sullen, 
or morose; disfigure — by putting dust or ashes on their 
head (see People's Commentary) : They have . . . reward — that 
is, men praise them. v. 17. anoint thy head — that is, ap- 
pear as usual, v. 18. not unto men — this clause implies that it 
is a personal and private duty ; the same rule applies to prayer 
and alms. v. 19. Lay not up — literally, treasure not up treas- 
ures ; upon earth — lay them not up here as the place ; moth — 
which destroys garments; rust — which destroys metals, v. 20. 
lay up — same expression as before, not earthly treasures, but 
heavenly, and in heaven, v. 21, urges us to do this, for where 
the treasure now is, there the heart will be also, v 22. 
single — fixed on the object of sight, seeing clearly, v. 23. eye 



38 people's lesson book. 

be evil — a bad eye, as diseased; full of darkness — literally, 
"dark," sight obscure, v. 24. Ye cannot — impossible, "to 
serve," as a slave, "two masters," whose interests and orders 
must come in conflict; hold to . . . despise — prefer the one, 
neglect the other ; mammon — not an idol, but wealth loved as 
a treasure. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What is the title of the last lesson? What 
reward will we have, if we give to be seen of men ? How 
should we give alms ? v. 3. Whom should we not imitate 
in praying ? What was given to show us how to pray ? Af- 
ter what manner may we hope to be forgiven ? v. 14. 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. HOW to Fast. — What is it to fast ? How did the hypocrites 

fast ? v. 16. What is meant by " disfigure their faces" ? 
How are disciples to fast ? v. 17. 
Why should they fast in this manner? v. 18. By whom 

and how would they be rewarded ? 

2. How and Where to Lay up Treasures. — Where are we 

not to lay up treasures ? v. 19. To what are treasures on 

earthy exposed? What is "moth"? "Bust"? The 

meaning of " corrupt? 
Where ought treasures to be laid up ? v. 20. How would 

these treasures differ from the others ? What reason is 

given for this charge in v. 21 ? 
How is this truth illustrated in v. 22 ? What is meant by 

"eye single"? 
How is the opposite condition stated in v. 23 ? 
What cannot a man do ? v. 24. What is " mammon " ? 

Why cannot a man serve that and God ? Whom should 

we serve ? How should we serve God ? 

PRACTICAL LESSON'S: 

1. Easting for display will not please God, but may 

please men. 

2. Fasting from the heart may not please men, but will 

please God. 

3. Sin and evil darken the soul. 

4. Christ and a " single eye " for him, give light to the 

soul. 

5. "We cannot serve the world and God, nor Satan and 

Christ. 



THE HEAVENLY FATHER'S CARE. 



39 



TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give an account of some great public fasts mentioned in the Bible. 

2. A similar account of some fasts by individuals noted in the Bible. 

3. Narrate instances of the folly of laying up treasures on earth, men- 
tioned in Scripture. 



LESSOR 13. 

THE HEAVENLY FATHER'S CARE, 



[A. D. 28. 

-Matt. 6 : 25-34. 



MEMORY TEXT —But seek ye first the kingdom of 
God, and his righteousness ; and all these things shall "be 
added unto you.— Matt. 6 : 33. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. "Worldly Anxiety 

Forbidden. 

2. "Worldly Anxiety 

Useless. 

3. God Cares for 

Disciples. 



Home Readings. 

M. Trust Matt. 6 : 25-34. 

T. Fear Not Matt. 10 : 19-31. 

W. God Cares for the Body.Ex. 16 : 11-19. 
Th, God Cares for the Soul... John 6 : 47-59. 
F. God Provides Raiment,, Deut. 8 : 1-18. 

SaL Life More than Meat Luke 12 : 16-23. 

S. Trust God Luke 12 : 24-34. 



Time, Place and Persons. — See Lesson 7. 

Lesson Sketch.— The teaching in this lesson is founded upon the 
truths in the last lesson. There Jesus showed the true and false modes 
of fasting, the right and the wrong_ place in which to lav up treasures, 
and that the only lasting treasure is in heaven. "But the body must be 
cared tor," the disciples might say. And Jesus tells them how it is cared 
for; as God cares for the birds, and clothes the lilies, so he will care for 
the bodily wants of his children. TVe should work for, but not worry 
about food and clothing. Those who seek first God and his righteousness 
will find that he is mindful of their wants. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 25. Therefore — if ye seek God, he will care for his ser- 
vants; Take no thought — or "be not anxious;' 7 more — greater, 
of more importance; meat — or " food," that sustains life ; if God 
has given life, he will not withhold what sustains it ; raiment — 
clothing, v. 26. fowls — or " birds," which are very numerous 
in Palestine ; sow . . . reap . . . gather — toilsome occupations 



40 



PEOPLE^ LESSON BOOK. 



of man, the birds do not follow them ; 
barns — called " garner " in 3 : 12; 
buildings for the storage of grain ; bet- 
ter — or, "of much more value, v. 27. 
cubit — about eighteen inches; stature 
— or possibly " age." v. 28. consider — 
" study ;" toil not — no labor to grow ; 
spin — to make the material into rai- 
ment, v. 29. Solomon — son of David, 
builder of the great temple; glory — 
pomp and splendor, v. 30. grass — of 
which the lilies form a part ; to day is, 
living and growing one day, and the 
next day is cut down, dried and used 
for fuel ; oven — made of clay, and port- 
able; much more . . . you — who are 
destined for eternal life; of little faith 
— because you act as if doubting it. v. 

31. The three questions in this verse are 
the great questions with the worldly, bu^ 
are not to give anxiety to Christians, v. 

32. all these things — food, clothing, 
and daily wants; Gentiles — " nations," 
all not Jews, heathen; knoweth — and 
will therefore supply your need. v. 33. 
seek ye iirst — not first in time only, 
but as first and greatest in importance ; 
the great object of life; kingdom of 
God — or "his kingdom; righteousness- 
added — supplied of er and above, v. 34. shall take thought 
— or "be anxious for itself," "will have, or bring, cares" 
of its own; evil thereof— the trouble, belonging to itself. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — How did hypocrites fast ? How should Chris- 
tians fast ? Where should we lay up treasures ? Why in 
heaven? Where will the heart be? When will the body 
have light ? When the soul ? Why cannot a man serve two 
masters ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

I. Worldly Anxiety Forbidden. — For what are we not to be 
anxious ? v. 25. What is meant by " take no thought " ? 
Are we not to work, nor provide for our wants when we 




Lily of Palestine, 
-true spiritual life; 



THE HEAVEKLY FATHER'S CARE. 41 

can ? What then does this charge mean ? What ques- 
tion is asked in the last clause of y. 25 ? 

2. Worldly Anxiety Useless. — To what does Jesus point us 

in v. 2(5 ? Ho ny are the birds eared for ? In what respect 
are disciples better or of more value than the birds? 

What other question does Jesus ask in v. 27 ? What is 
meant by " stature " ? How much is a " cubit " ? Which 
is the greater gift, life or food ? 

What is said of the lilies in v. 28 ? 

To whose glory are they compared in v. 29 ? Who was 
Solomon? For what was he renowned? What is 
meant by his not being u arrayed like one of these " ? 

3. God Cares for Disciples. — Who gives the grass its beauty? 

v. 30. Why is it reasonable to think that God will care 

for man as much as for grass and flowers ? Who are 

" of little faith"? 
For what three things are we again told not to be anxious? 

v. 31. 
What further reason is given for this command ? v. 32. 

Who were meant by the Gentiles? Why should we not 

be like them ? 
What should we make the one great object of life ? v. 33. 

Who will supply all our real wants ? 
What command for the future is given? v. 34. What 

reason for it is given ? What is meant by " shall take 

thought for itself" ? What is meant by l< evil thereof" ? 

Does this mean that we may be idle ? What then does 

it teach ? 

PKACTICAL LESSONS: 

1. We need not be over anxious about food, clothing 

and the wants of this life. 

2. Anxiety is useless. 

3. God cares for birds : he will care for his children. 

4. Righteousness is the first business of life. 

5. Have a care for the things of God first, and he will 

have a care for our needs. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Describe some of the birds mentioned in the Bible. 

2. Give a sketch of the life of Solomon. 

3. Mention some instances mentioned in the Bible where God unex- 
pectedly provided food for the hungry. 



42 people's lesson book. 

LESSON 14. [A. D. 28. 

TRUE RELIGION.— Matt. 7 : 1-14. 

MEMORY TEXT.— Therefore aU things whatsoever ye 
would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them ; 
for this is the law and the prophets. — Matt. 7 : 12. 

© m m 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Be not Censori- 

ous. 

2. How to Ask and 

Heceive. 

3. The Sum of Re- 

ligion. 



Home Readings. 

M. Wise Rules Matt. 7 : 1-14. 

T. Why not Judge Rom. 2 : 1-11. 

W. Abusing Gifts.... Acts 8 : 14-24. 

Th. Asking John 16:22-30. 

F. Good Gifts Luke 11 : 5-13. 

Sat. Law Fulfilled Rom. 13:7-14. 

S. The Only Way John 10 : 1-9. 



# 

Time, Places, and Persons.— See Lesson 7. 

Lesson Sketch. — Having shown us our duty to God, and to our- 
selves, Jesus now points out our duty to our neighbor. He tells us not to 
judge others harshly, and that to reform others we must first reform our- 
selves. We are reverently to use holy things, and he encourages us, by 
the example of earthly parents, to seek good things of God. We are to 
do to others what we would wish them to do to us. We are to strive to 
enter the narrow gate of life, and to avoid the wide gate and broad way 
that lead to destruction. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. * 

Verse 1. Judge not — not unkindly, harshly, v. 2. with 
what judgment — and in what spirit; be judged — of God; 
measure — in the sense of " standard " of thought and conduct. 
v. 3. mote — "little splinter," figurative for trifling error; con- 
siderest not — takest no notice of; beam — figurative for great 
sin. v. 4. wilt thou say — in a meddling spirit, or with false 
zeal. v. 5. hypocrite — because professing true interest where 
there is only a fault-finding spirit ; see clearly — properly, cor- 
rectly, and with the true spirit of helpfulness, v. 6. that 
which is holy — offered at the sacrifice which none but the 
priests might eat, Lev. 22 : 4-11 ; dogs — ran wild and had, no 
owners in Palestine ; cast . . . pearls — for food ; swine — which 
Jews could not eat, but kept them for the Gentile market, v. 
7. ask . . . seek . . . knock — pray and labor to receive as a 
gift from God those things you need to make you " clean," and 
fit to receive the " holy things " which are denied to the unholy. 
v. 8. asketh — sincerely and in the proper spirit; receive th— 




TRUE RELIGION. 43 

at once, from God ; it shall be opened — the entrance into the 
kingdom of heaven, v. 9. stone — similar in appearance to a 
loaf of bread, v. 10. fish — the most common flesh food in the 
neighborhood where Jesus was; serpent — looking much like 
some kinds of fish. v. 11. being evil — by nature, because hu- 
man ; know . . . how — and do, in spite of your sinful nature ; 
your Father — whose love and holiness are perfect; good things 
— refers here to spiritual gifts, the best of which is the Holy 
Ghost, Luke 11 : 13. v. 12. would— wish, de- 
sire; even so — do to them what you would &Ol*&Eto 
wish to have done unto you (see Revised 
Yersion). v. 13. Enter ye in — into Christ's 
kingdom; strait — narrow, so narrow that only 
those who give up sin can pass through ; wide 
— because all kinds of sin can pass through ; ^p ,^<y 1CJ 
broad — because all the hedges of law have tLUJjXl 
been trampled down; destruction — of the 
soul and body ; many there be — because it is broad and easy, 
and selfish, v. 14. narrow . . . the way — " straitened," be- 
cause of self-denial required to keep in it ; life — true, spiritual 
life, that life that lasts for ever ; find it — this divine heavenly 
life. 

QUESTIONS, 

For Review. — What anxious thought does Jesus forbid? 
Matt. 6 : 25. What illustrations does he give to show that 
such anxiety is needless ? What are we commanded to seek 
first ? What promise is added ? 

OET THE LESSON". 

1. Be not Censorious. — In what way are we not to judge ? v. 

1. Why? 
How shall we be judged? v. 2. What is implied by 

"measure?" 
What reproof is given in v. 3 ? What is a mote ? 
In what does the hypocrisy in v. 4 consist ? Are we not to 

help others till we are perfect ? 
What tlfen shall we do? v. 5. Why? V\ T hat will we do 

besides merely "beholding" another's faults? 
What charge is given in v. 6 ? What is meant by " that 

which is holy " ? Why was it not to be given to dogs ? 

2. How to Ask and Receive. — What three things are said in 

v. 7 ? Whom shall we ask ? What shall we seek ? In 



44 people's lesson book. 

what spirit must asking, seeking and knocking be 

done ? 
What will be the result? v. 8. Whose promise is this? 

How does Christ prove God's willingness to give? 
If a son asks for bread, what will his father give him ? v. 9. 
If he asks for a fish ? v. 10. What does this show ? 
Why will God much more give us good things? v. 11. 

What good things are meant ? To whom will he give 

them ? 
3. The Sum of Religion.— What is the substance of the law 

and prophets given in v. 12? What should this govern 

besides our deeds ? 
In what are we to enter? v. 13 What is meant by the 

" strait gate " ? Where does the wide gate and broad way 

lead? 
What is said of-the number in each of these ways ? v. 14. 

What makes the way of life narrow and hard to find ? 

LESSORS FOR US: 

1. The danger and folly of unkind judgments. 

2. Reasons for confidence in prayer. 

3. The true rule of life. 

4. The need of earnestness and perseverance in godli- 

ness. 

5. The need of striving to get into the way of life. 

6. The need of constant care to keep in that way. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some instances of wise and unwise judgments mentioned in 
Scripture. 

2. Mention some cases of importunate and successful prayer noticed in 
the Bible. 

3. Tell where in the Bible our life is compared to a race ; describe the 
kind of race meant. 



LESSON 15. [A. D.28. 

THE FALSE AND THE TRUE.— Matt. 7 :'l5-29. 

MEMORY TEXT.— TvTot every one that saith unto me,, 
Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven ; but 
he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.— 

Matt. 7 : 21. 



THE FALSE AND THE TRUE. 



45 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The False. 

2. The True. 

3. The False and 

the True Con- 
trasted. 



Home Readings. 

M. False and True Matt. 7 : 15-29. 

T. Good and Bad Fruits...Gal. 5 : 16-26. 
W. Kn' wn by their Fruits.l Ki. 18 : 20-30. 

Th. Saving and Doing James 2 : 14-26. 

F. At the Judgment Matt. 25 : 31-46. 

Sat. The Rock of Salvation.l Pet. 2 : 1-10. 
S. The Foundation Tried.l Cor. 3 : 10-19. 



© 



Time, Place and Persons. — See Lesson 7. 

Lesson Sketch. — Jesus warns disciples against false teachers. They 
may be known by their fruits. A good tree has good fruit ; a bad tree, 
bad fruit. A tree that has no good fruit is cut down and burned. Pro- 
fessing to call Jesus Lord, pretending to teach in his name, or to have 
done miracles in it will not save us at last. Hear and do. The foolish 
man builds on the sand; those who hear only are like this man. The 
wise man builds on the rock ; his house stands when the floods come. So 
is the one that hears and does what Jesus says. Jesus taught with au- 
thority. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 15. false prophets — false religious teachers, 24 : 11, 24; 
Acts 20 : 29, 30; sheep's clothing — meaning those who put on 
the appearance of Christians; inwardly — in their hearts ; rav- 
ening wolves — figurative for " greedy to harm and destroy. " v. 
16. figs — a common fruit of Palestine much used for food • this- 
tles — a thorny, coarse weed. v. 17. good tree — one good at 
heart; good fruit — sound, useful fruit; corrupt — bad. v. 21. 
every one — of men in general; Lord, Lord — a profession of 
love ; kingdom of heaven — the true, spiritual kingdom, here 
and hereafter, v. 22. that day— Isa. 2 : 20; Luke 10 : 12; 
Matt. 11 : 24, the day of judgment, 25 : 31-46; prophesied— 
" preached " and taught ; in thy name — or, by th 
means of it; cast out devils— in Christ's 
time persons were sometimes possessed of 
devils or evil spirits; so the gift of pro- 
phecy, 1 Cor. 13 : 2; 12 : 10, of healing, of 
working miracles, of discerning of spirits, 
was given to men, 1 Cor. 12 : 9, 10; Mark 9 : 
38. v. 23. profess — plainly declare; never 
knew — as my true followers, v. 24. wise, built 
his house — of sun-burnt brick, bence soft; 
if not on a rock they would wash away. v. 
25. the rain — the rainy season in Palestine 
lasted from October to April ; then the mountain streams be- 



hy name, by 




RUI 

Two Foundations, 



46 people's lesson book. 

came wild torrents and the rivers overflowed their banks; 
floods — refer to these torrents and freshets, v. 26. foolish. — 
not only ignorantly , but wilfully, and hence culpably, foolish ; 
sand — loose, soft and low ground, v. 28. doctrine — teaching, 
both the manner and substance, v. 29. taught — was teaching; 
having authority — in himself. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was said about judging in vs. 1, 2? 
What about offering to pull a mote out of a brother's eye in 
vs. 3-5 ? By what examples are we encouraged to ask things 
of God in vs. 9-11 ? Recite the so-called golden rule in v. 
12. Which gate are we to enter, and which to avoid ? Why ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The False. — Against whom are we warned in v. 15 ? Who 

are meant by " false prophets ?" Under what assumed 
character will they come ? What is their real character ? 
How may they be recognized ? 
What illustrations are given in vs. 16, 17 ? 

2. The True. — What are the characteristics of good fruit 

trees? v. 17. 
Can there be an exception to this rule? v. 18. What 

reason is given ? 
What is done with bad trees? v. 19. How does this prin- 
ciple apply to man? To whom besides false prophets 

does this refer ? 
Who of those that say " Lord, Lord," will be accepted ? 

Who not? v. 21 
What will many say in " that day ?" v. 22. What day is 

meant ? What is meant by " prophesied ?" 
What will Christ say to them? v. 23. In what sense did 

he never know them? To whom will he say this? 

What besides hearing is required ? 

3. The False and the True Contrasted.— To what does Christ 

liken the doer of the word ? v. 24. Why was it best to 

build on rock ? 
What happened to the house on the rock ? v. 25. 
To what is the mere hearer of the word compared ? v. 26. 

Why was it foolish to build on sand? 
What befell the house on the sand ? v. 27. 



JESUS' POWER OVER DISEASE. 47 

Why were the people astonished at Christ's teaching ? v. 

28. 
"What was the difference between Christ's and the scribes' 

teaching? v. 29. 

LESSORS: 

1. Avoid false teachers. 

2. Good and bad people are known by their conduct. 

3. Hear what Jesus says. 

4. Do what Jesus says. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. In what other passages in the Bible are the vine and fruit trees used 
to illustrate godly life. 

2. Give other instances in the Bible where the Christian is compared 
to a building or to a house. 

3. Tell what you know about the scribes' method of teaching. 



LESSON 16. [A. D. 28. 

JESUS' POWER OVER DISEASE.— Matt. 8 : 1-17. 

MEMORY TEXT— Jesus put forth his hand, and 
touched him, saying, I will ; be thou clean. And immedi- 
ately his leprosy was cleansed.— Matt. 8 : 3. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Healing a Leper. 

2. The Centurion's 

Servant. 

3. Peter's "Wife's 

Mother, and 
Others. 



Home Readings. 

M. Healing Matt. 8 : 1-17. 

T. God Heals His People... Ps. 103 : 1-13. 

W. True Humility Luke 15 : 17-24. 

Th. The Powerful* Word Ps. 107 : 15-22. 

F. Great Faith Matt. 15 : 21-28. 

Sat. Faith's Beward Luke 7: 44-50. 

S. Divine Compassion Isa. 53:4-9. 



Time— A. D. 2S. 

Places. — Galilee, Capernaum. 

Persons. — Jesus, leper, Roman centurion, centurion's servant, Peter, 
Peter's wife's mother, priest (Moses, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Isaiah). 

Lesson Sketch. — The miracles of healing which Jesus did were a 
proof of his divine mission and power, and that he was the Messiah as he 
claimed to be. Matthew groups several miracles in this chapter. The 



48 



people's lesson book. 



leper beseechingly said, if thou wilt, thou canst cure me. Jesus quickly- 
answered I will, and the man was healed. Then Jesus required him to 
show himself to the priest, and get official proof that he was clean. As 
Jesus entered Capernaum a centurion asked him to heal his servant. He 
did not want Jesus to have the trouble of coming to his house. The cen- 
turion believed that if Jesus said the word, his servant would be healed. 
Yet the centurion was a heathen. Jesus healed his servant, and com- 
mended the great faith of the centurion. Then Jesus healed Peter's 
wifes mother of a great fever and cast out demons from many persons 
who were brought to him. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. mountain — where he had given his sermon (see Les- 
son 7). v. 2. a leper — Luke 5 : 12, says " full of leprosy " (see 
Diet.) ; wilt . . . canst — if thou art willing; thou art able. v. 3. 
touched — touching a leper made the person unclean ; here, the 
touch of infinite purity, made the 
loathsome pure. v. 4. tell no man 
— lest a crowd keep Jesus from his 
true work; show thyself to the 
priest — who is the official to judge 
of the cure, Lev. 14 : 2, 3 ; The gift 
that Moses commanded — two birds, 
cedar wood, scarlet and hyssop, Lev. 
14 : 4-7; for a testimony— that 
they may have evidence of a cure, 
v. 5. Capernaum— see Diet.; cen- 
turion — a Roman military officer, 
who commanded 100 soldiers, v. 6. 
sick of the palsy — in Greek, a sin- 
gle word=^=" paralytic ;" grievous- 
ly tormented — suffering terribly, 
v. 8. not worthy — not good enough; 
but speak the word only—give the 
command — a single word is enough, 
v. 9. For I am a man under author- 
ity — he gives a reason for believing 
—as if he would say, " I know the 
power of a command, for I both 
command and obey ; surely disease 
will obey you a prophet." v. 10. 
Jesus . . . marvelled — wondered; Verily — truly; not in Is- 
rael — this man was a Roman. The wonder was that a Roman 
soldier should have such faith, v. 11. from the east and west 
— from all parts of the heathen world ; sit down — recline as at 
a feast ; Abraham, Isaac and Jacob — the patriarchs to whom 




Eoman Centurion. 



jests' power oyer disease. 49 

the promise was made. Gentiles through faith will share these 
blessings, Gal. 3 : 29. v. 12. children of the kingdom — those 
to whom its privileges were promised but who had forfeited 
them by unbelief; outer darkness — into spiritual and awful 
darkness; weeping and gnashing — forms of showing great 
grief, v. 13. as thou hast believed — not because of, but ac- 
cording to thy faith, v. 14. Peter's — the apostle's; wife's mother 
— mother-in-law, Peter then was married, Romanists claim that 
Peter was the first Pope; and yet they forbid the clergy to 
marry! v. 15. touched — Mark says took her hand — as an 
aid to faith and healing : she arose — restored at once to health, 
v. 16. When the even was come — after sunset; possessed with 
devils — literally, "demonized," under the control of demons; 
healed all that 'were sick — there were many cases; and so was 
fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah (53 : 4). 

QUESTIONS. 

FOP Review. — How may we distinguish false teachers? 
What illustrations are used to show this in ch. 7 : 16-18 ? To 
whom will Jesus say I never knew you ? 7 : 23. On what 
foundations did the wise man build? The foolish man? 
What was the result of each ? Who is like the wise builder ? 
"Who is like + he foolish one? 

ON THE LESSOR. 

1. Healing the Leper. — Who followed Christ down from the 

mountain? v. 1. 
Who came to him to be healed? v. 2. What is a leper? 

How did he show his faith ? What did Jesus sav ? 
What did he then tell the leper to do ? v. 3. Why ? 
What gift to offer? v. 4. Of what did it consist ? 

2. Healing the Centurion's Servant. — Into what city did Jesus 

enter ? v. 5. Who met him ? What was a centurion ? 
What did he request ? v. 6. 
What did Jesus reply ? v. 7. 
How did the centurion answer ? v. 8. 
How show his faith in Christ ? v. 9. What is implied in 

the words " I also am a man under authority " ? 
What did Jesus say of this man's faith ? v. 10. 
How does he speak of the conversion of the Gentiles ? v. 1L 
Of the casting off of the unbelieving Jews ? v. 12. 
When was the servant healed ? v. 13. 



50 people's lesson book. 

3. Healing Peter's Wife's Mother and Others.— What rela- 
tive of Peter was sick? v. 14. Of what? 

How healed? v. 15. How is the Romish doctrine which 
forbids the clergy to marry disproved here ? 

What other miracles of healing were wrought? v. 16. 
What is the meaning of " possessed with devils " ? How 
were they healed? 

What prophecy was thus fulfilled ? v. 17. 

LESSONS FOE US: 

1. Jesus cleansed the leper: he can also cleanse us 

from sin. 

2. Wot our worthiness, taut our need commends us to 

the Saviour. 

3. "We must show our faith "by coming to him. 

4. "Without faith, pious ancestry will not save us. 

5. Jesus can and will save to the uttermost those who 

truly come to him. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some description of the disease of leprosy. 

2. Describe the office and duties of a Roman centurion. 

3. What other centurion had faith, and where did he live? 



LESSON 17. [A. D. 28. 

POWER OYER MEN, THE SEA, AND DEMONS. 

Matt. 8 : 18-34. 

MEMOBY TEXT.— What manner of man is this, that 
even the winds and the sea obey him !— Matt. 8 : 27. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Power over Men. 

2. Power over Na- 

ture. 

3. Power over De- 

mons. 



Home Readings. 

M. Jesus and Multitudes.Matt. 14 : 14-23. 

T. Jesus and Scribe Luke 9 : 51-62. 

W. A Troubled Disciple.,1 Kings 19 : 1-21. 

Th. Jesus and Tenipest....Mark 4 : 35-41. 

F. Comforted Disciples.. Ps. 46 : 1-11. 

Sat. Jesus and Demoniacs.Luke 8 : 26-39. 

S. Jesus and Citizens Luke 4 : 16-30. 



POWER OVER MEN, THE SEA, AND DEMONS. 51 

Time.— Autumn, A. D. 28. 

Places. — Sea of Galilee near Capernaum, and opposite shore. 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, two demoniacs, the Gerasenes or Gad- 
arenes. 

Lesson Sketch. — A scribe offers to follow Jesus. He is warned of 
the homeless life he must lead. A halting disciple is urged to leave the 
dead to bury their dead and follow the Master. A storm on the lake 
alarms the disciples ; they awake Jesus ; he rebukes the winds and waves. 
The wind ceases to blow ; the sea becomes calm. Near Gerasa or Gergesa, 
in the region of Gadara, Jesus cures two men of demons. The demons 
enter a herd of swine. The swine run down a steep place into the 
lake and are drowned. The people are alarmed and ask Jesus to leave 
their country. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 18. Now — after Jesus had healed all their sick, v. 16; 
great multitudes — who thronged about Jesus to be healed and 
to hear his gracious words ; gave commandment — to his disci- 
ples ; other side — east side of the Sea of Galilee, v. 19. scribe — 
probably one of his disciples (see v. 21.). v. 20. Son of man — 
Jesus; not where — noplace, a homeless pilgrim, v. 21. another — 
Lange suggests that the scribe of v. 19 is Judas Iscariot, and the 
disciple of this verse Thomas; this, however, is speculation; 
suffer — allow; bury my father — among the Jews it was con- 
sidered the duty of sons to bury their parents, v. 22. dead 
bury their dead — "Let those who are dead in spirit bury those 
of their relatives who are dead in body" (Schaff), or, let the 
dead be unburied, if burying them keeps us from following Christ, 
v. 23. his disciples — the twelve; followed him — "there were 
also with him other little ships/' Mark 4 : 36. 
v. 24. great tempest — furious storm of wind; 
covered — waves beat into the boat; he was 
asleep — tired like other men. v. 25. came to 
him — not knowing what else to do, see Ps. 50 : 
15; save us — no other power can. v. 26. re- 
buked — first the disciples, then the wind and 
waves; great calm — perfect quiet; fear and ""^^^^r^p 
danger depart, v. 27. marvelled — wondered; 
manner of man— a problem they could not then solve ; winds 
. . . sea — which in their view were subject to God only. v. 28. 
Gergesenes — see Diet.; two — Mark and Luke only' mention 
one ; they probably mention the boldest one; devils — see Diet.; 
tombs — natural or artificial caves, v. 29. they cried — men 
completely under the power of demons; Son of God — the 
devils recognized the divinity of the Lord ; torment us — drive 
us out of men. v. 30, good way off— on the hill-slopes adja- 




52 people's lesson book. 

cent ; swine — to the Jew an unclean animal, v. 31. devils — 
their number was legion, v. 33. fled — the swineherds hastened 
to the city with the strange news; what was befallen — how 
they were in their right mind. v. 34. whole city — great num- 
bers of the inhabitants ; besought . . . depart — more concerned 
for the loss of swine than in the cure of demoniacs. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What did a leper ask of Jesus? v. 2. What 
did Jesus answer, and tell him to do? vs. 3, 4. What re- 
quest did a centurion of Capernaum make? v. 6. What 
did Jesus offer to do ? v. 7. What was the reply ? v. 8. 
What did Jesus say to the multitude about the centurion ? 
v. 10. What to the centurion? v. 13. Was his servant 
healed? v. 13. 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. Power Over Men. — What order did Jesus give to his disci- 

ples ? v. 18. Why? 
What did a certain scribe say to Jesus? v. 19. 
What did Jesus say to him ? v. 20. 
What did one of the disciples want ? v. 21. 
What did Jesus mean by his reply in v. 22 ? What duty 

is of more importance than burying the dead ? 

2. Power Over the Sea. — On what water was Jesus? 
Who were with Jesus in the ship ? v. 23. 

How were the disciples in danger ? v. 24. Did the storm 

awake Jesus? 
Who did ? v. 25. What will believing prayer always do ? 
What did Jesus say to the winds and waves ? v. 26. What 

followed ? 
W'hat did the men say? v. 27. What did the disciples 

say to each other ? 

3. Power Over Demons. — Where was the country of the 

Gergesenes ? 
What was the Jewish law in relation to swine? Lev. 11 : 

7, 8 ; Deut. 14 : 8. 
Who met Jesus? v. 28. Describe their appearance. What 

did the devils call Jesus ? 
What did they ask him ? v. 29. 
What request did they make ? vs. 30, 31. 



POWER TO FORGIVE BINS, 



53 



What became of the swine? v. 32. 
What did the keepers say in the city ? v. 33. 
What did the city beseech Jesus to do ? v. 34. 
Christ to leave them now ? 



Who wish 



LESSONS FOB US: 

1. It will cost us some self-denial to follow Jesus. 

2. "We are to follow Christ in preference to everything 

else. 

3. Jesus calmed the troubled sea; he can calm troubled 

hearts. 

4. Jesus has power over demons ; has he cast Satan and 

sin out of you ? 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some account of storms, their frequency, violence, and sudden 
coming on the Sea of Galilee. 

2. Give other instances of the healing of persons possessed with de- 
mons by Jesus. 

3. State some proofs from Scripture of the need of self denial in fol- 
lowing Christ. 



LESSON 18. [A. D. 28. 

POWER TO FORGIVE SSNS.— Matt. 9 : 1-3. 

MEMORY TEXT.— The Son of man hath power on 
earth to forgive sins.— Matt. 9 : 6. 

© ■ © 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Faith of Friends. 

2. Evil Thoughts of 
the Scribes. 

3. Healing Soul and 
Body. 



Home Headings. 

M. The Lepers Matt. : 1-8. 

T. Palsv Cured Mark 2 : 1-12. 

W. Palsy Cured Luke 5: 17-26. 

Th. Sins Forgiven Ps. 32 : 1-11. 

F. God's Love John 3 : 16-36. 

Sat. Faith Matt, 8 : 1-13. 

S. Prodigal Son Luke 15:11-32. 



Time.— (v. 1) Autumn, (v. 2-8) Spring of A. D. 28. 
Places.— Sea of Galilee; Capernaum. 
Persons. — Jesus, disciples, paralytic, scribes. 

Lesson Sketch. — The Gadarenes wished Jesus to leave their coun- 
try. So Jesus returned across the lake to his own city, Capernaum. 




54 people's lesson book. 

The evangelist in this connection, relates a miracle done at Capernaum, 
perhaps some months earlier. See Mark 2 : 1-12. A paralytic, a palsied 
man, was brought to Jesus on a bed or couch. Jesus said, " Thy sins be 
forgiven thee ;" but the scribes thought this was claiming divine power. 
Then Jesus cured the man by a word, to prove that he had power to for- 
give sins. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. passed — or "crossed over," in fact he recrossed the 
sea; own city — Capernaum, v. 2. brought — on his return, or 
more probably at an earlier time. The sick man was not able 
to come — he was carried by his friends; their faith — the faith 
of those bringing him; be forgiven — 
probably this was not what the friends 
thought of; healing for the body was 
their object. v. 3. scribes said — not 
aloud, but in their minds, or among them- 
selves; blaspheme th — in assuming to do 
what God alone could do. v. 5. easier — 
not easier to do, but easier to say, or to 
claim, v. 6. know — as proof to you that 
I have this power to forgive; arise — the 
tt , . T 5£ ^ >JC ™" * palsied is to obey Jesus, to attest the 
Healing the Paralytic. * Mm tQ forgiye ^ y £ marvelled _ 

or "were afraid;" here was a being with power dangerous to 
foes, but glorious to his friends and the friends of God. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What did a scribe say he would do ? Matt 
8 : 18. How did Jesus answer him? v. 19. How answer 
another? vs. 21, 22. How show his power over the storm? 
v. 26. How show his power over demons ? Where did the 
demons go? What became of the swine? What was Jesus 
besought to do ? 8 : 34. 

ON" THE LESSON. 

1. Faith of Friends. — What lake did Jesus recross? v. 1. 

To whose city did he come? What was the city called? 
Who was brought to him? v. 2. How did they get him 
where Jesus was? See Luke 5:19. For what purpose ? 
What did Jesus say to the palsied man ? 

2. Evil Thoughts of the Scribes.— How were the scribes 

displeased at Jesus ? v. 3. 
How did Jesus show that he knew their thoughts? v. 4. 



FRIEND OF SINNERS. 



55 



By what question show the unreasonableness of their objec- 
tion? v. 5. 

What would he have them know ? v. 6. 
3. Healing Soul and Body. — What did Jesus say to the par- 
alytic? v. 6. Why did he say it in this way? 

What was the sick able to do? v. 7. 

What did the multitude do when they saw it ? v. 8, 

PRACTICAL LESSONS: 

1. Some sinners are as helpless as the palsied man. 

2. It is blessed for us to be borne to Jesus in faith. 

3. Christ heals the soul : forgives sins. 

4. Healing the body may follow healing the soul. 

5. "We, like the scribes, may mistake the power of God. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Narrate other instances of the healing of cripples or helpless per- 
sons mentioned in the Bible. 

2. Give proof texts that Jesus has power to forgive sins. 

3. Write out plainly the conditions upon which Christ will forgive our 



LESSON 19. [A. D. 28. 

FRIEND OF SiNNERS.— Matt. 9 : 9-17. 

MEMORY TEXT.— I will have mercy, and not sacrifice : 
for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to re- 
pentance.— Matt. 9 : 13. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Calling Sinners. 

2. Easting: New 

and Old Forms. 



Home Headings. 

M. Call of Matthew Matt. 9 : 9-17. 

T. Call of Moses Ex. 3 : 1-14. 

W. Call of Saul Acts 9 : 1-20. 

27*. Call of Samuel 1 Sam. 3 : 1-19. 

F. Power of Faith Matt. 8 . 1-13. 

Sat. Publicans and Sinners.Luke 15 : 1-10. 

S. God's Love to Sinners. ..John 3 : 16-36. 



Time.— A. D. 28. 
Place. — Capernaum. 

Persons. — Jesus, Matthew, publicans, Pharisees, disciples of John. 
Lesson Sketch. — Jesus calls Matthew from tax collecting to be a 
disciple. Jesus sits at the table with publicans and sinners. The Phari- 



56 people's lesson book. 

sees object to this. Jesus declares that he came to call sinners. Then 
John's disciples ask him why his disciples do not fast. He teaches them 
why they need not fast while the bridegroom, the Master, is with them. 
Under the figure of mending a garment, and of putting wine into old bot- 
tles, or wine skins, he shows them that they cannot fasten all the old forms 
of religion upon the new kingdom, the kingdom of heaven. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 9. Matthew — see Introduction ; follow me — as a 
disciple, see Luke 5 : 27. v. 10. in the house — the house of Levi 
or Matthew who made the feast, Luke 5 : 29. v. 11. Why eat- 
eth — the strict Jews thought it would defile them to eat with a 
publican or a Gentile, v. 12. need not a physician — Jesus was 
the spiritual physician, he came to cure those who are sick in 
sin. v. 13. to call . . . sinners — because he is to heal the soul; 
" to repentance " is omitted in the Revised Version. The call 
implies repentance, v. 14. fast oft — the Pharisees regarded fast- 
ing as having some merit, and John's disciples were in bondage 
to these Jewish ideas, v. 15. the bridegroom is with them — 
Jesus as the bridegroom was with his disciples, and thus they 
must rejoice, not fast, like those at a wedding feast while the 
bridegroom is with them. v. 16. new cloth, etc. — the meaning 
is, you cannot by fasting cover up an old life of sin. The whole 
life must be made anew. v. 17. new wine . . . old bottles — or 
" wine skins " as in the Revised Version. The iigure is now re- 
versed. New forms for new life : new bottles for new wine ; 
you must not put Christianity into all the old forms of Juda- 
ism. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Who was brought to Jesus at Capernaum? 
v. 2. Who were offended at Jesus, and why ? v. 3. How 
were the scribes answered ? What was done for the palsied 
man? v. 6. 

OW THE LESSON. 

1. Calling Sinners. — What was Matthew doing when Jesus 

called him ? v. 9. 
With whom did Jesus sit at the table? v. 10. 
Who complained of his act, and why? v. 11. 
How did Jesus answer and reprove their complaints ? v. 12. 
Whom had Jesus come to call? v. 13. Why to call 

sinners ? 

2. Fasting : New and Old. — What question did John's dis- 

ciples ask ? v. 14. 



.RAISING THE RUBER'S DAUGHTER, ETC. 57 

How did Jesus answer them? v. 15. Who is meant by 
the bridegroom? Who by " the children of the bride- 
groom"? 

What illustration did Jesus give of his statement ? v. 16. 
How does it apply to what had been said on fasting ? 

What further illustration is given in v. 17? In what way 
does this apply to what had been said ? 

LESSONS FOR US: 

1. Persons busy about worldly things are often called to 

follow Jesus. 

2. Jesus may not call the self-righteous, but will call con- 

scious sinners. 

3. Frequent fasting will not purchase salvation. 

4. Not formal observances, but hearing and doing God's 

will saves men. 

TOPJCS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some account of the work of a publican or Soman tax collector. 

2. Give some description of fasts and fasting in our Lord's time. 

3. Cite ten texts showing that Jesus calls sinners. 



LESSON 20. [A. D. 28. 

RAISING THE RULER'S DAUGHTER, AND HEALING THE 
WOMAN.-Matt. 9 : 18-26. 

MEMORY TEXT —Daughter be of good comfort ; thy 
faith hath made thee whole.— Matt. 9 : 22. 

# 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Ruler's Re- 

quest. 

2. The "Woman 

Healed. 

3. The Ruler's 

Daughter Re- 
stored. 



©- 



Home Readings. 

M. Ruler's Daughter Matt. 9 : 18-26. 

T. Widow's Son Raised Luke 7 : 11-17. 

W. Lazarus Raised John 11 : 1-44. 

Th. Healing Mark 6 : 52-56. 

F. Power over Nature Mark 4 : 30-41. 

Sat. Faith in God Gen. 22 : 1-19. 

8. World Overcome John 16 : 16-33. 



Time.— Probably in the autumn of A. D. 28. 
Place. — In or near Capernaum. 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, ruler (Jairus), a woman sick with an issue 
of blood, minstrels or mourners, ruler's daughter. 



58 



THE PEOPLES LESSON BOOK. 



Lesson Sketch.— A Jewish ruler named Jairus. came to Jesus and 
said his daughter was dying, was even now dead. Ii Jesus would come 
and put his hands on her, she would live. Jesus went with the ruler. On 
the way, a woman, who had been sick for twelve years, came in the crowd 
and touched his garment and was healed. Jesus knew it, and bid the 
woman be of good comfort, her faith had cured her. When he came to 
the ruler's house, he found it filled with mourning minstrels, for the - 
child was dead. But Jesus put the hired mourners out of the room, and 
with the father, mother, and three disciples went in, took the girl by the 
hand, spake to her, and she arose. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 18. ruler — his name was Jairus, Mark 5 : 22 ; my 
daughter — Mark says " little daughter," and Luke adds, " one 
only daughter." v. 20. twelve years — Mark and Luke say she 
had spent her all on physicians, but was only worse ; touched — 

her faith and her 
touch of Jesus' gar- 
ment cured her. v. 24. 
be of good comfort — 
Mark and Luke give 
a more full account. 
Jesus asked who 
touched him, see Mark 
5 : 28-33, Luke 8 : 45- 
47. v. 23. minstrels 
— " flute-p layers," 
mourners, ' hired for 
the occasion, as was 

a^-~ + -i7i„+™ *„ usual in the East. 

Ancient Flutes, &c. „ . , , , , , 

v. 24. not dead but 

sleepeth — he was about to raise her, so that her death would be 
only like one asleep ; so also believers are said to sleep in Jesus 
at death, v. 25. put forth — the crowd and the hired mourn- 
ers ; maid arose — Mark adds she walked, and Luke that Jesus 
ordered them to give her something to eat. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What disciple did Jesus call from tax-collect- 
ing? v. 9. With whom did Jesus eat in a house? v. 10. 
Who found fault with him for this? How did Jesus answer 
the Pharisees ? vs. 12, 13. Who asked a question about fast- 
ing ? v. 14. What answer did Jesus give ? What illustra- 
tions add? vs. 16, 17. 




HEALING THE BLIND AND DUMB. 59 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Ruler's Request. — How many miracles are mentioned 

in this lesson? Whose daughter was restored to life? 

What is meant by " a ruler ?" How was a woman cured ? 
What was the ruler's request ? v. 18. 
What was his name ? See Mark 5 : 22. 
How did Jesus treat this request ? v. 19. Who went with 

Jesus ? 

2. The Woman Healed. — What woman sought to be healed 

by Jesus ? v. 20. How ? How long had she been sick ? 
What say to herself? v. 21. 

When she touched him what did Jesus say ? v. 22. 
To whom did he first speak ? See Mark 5 : 28, 29. From 

what time was the woman cured ? 

3. The Ruler's Daughter Restored. — Who were in the ruler's 

house? v. 23. What were the "minstrels," and why 

were they there ? 
What did Jesus say of the girl? v. 24. How did the 

crowd answer ? 
How did Jesus proceed to restore her? v. 25. 
What is said about the report of this miracle ? v. 26. 

LESSONS FOE US: 

1. "We are to ask Jesus for help. 

2. Jesus healed the most difficult diseases. 

3. He has power over death. 

4. He can heal our spiritual diseases. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. State how many cases of raising the dead are mentioned in the gos- 
pels ; describe each case, and point out how they differ from each other. 

2. Describe other cases of the cure of women mentioned in the New 
Testament. 

3. Narrate the facts in this lesson in your own words. 



LESSON 21. [A. D. 28. 

HEALING THE BLIND AND DUMB.— Matt. 9 : 27-34. 

MEMORY VERSE— Then touched he their eyes, say- 
ing, According to your faith be it unto you.— Matt. 9 : 29. 



60 people's lesson book. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Two Blind Men 

Healed. 

2. Durnb Demoniac 

Healed. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Blind Healed Matt. 9 : 27-34. 

T. The Blind Beggar....,..Mark 10 : 46-52. 

W. Blind Guides Matt. 23: 24-33. 

Th. Born Blind John 9. 

F. Struck Blind Acts 13 : 4-13. 

Sat. Blinded by Prejudice. Acts 9 : 1-9. 

S. - Sight Restored .Acts 9 : 10-22. 



Time. — Autumn of A. D. 28. 

Place. — Near or in Capernaum. 

Persons. — Jesus, blind men, dumb demoniac. 

Lesson Sketch. — Two blind men come to Jesus asking him to have 
mercy on them. He enters a house : the blind men follow him, and he 
healed them. He sent them away, charging them not to tell of the heal- 
ing. But they disobeyed Jesus, and talked about the healing through 
that country. Then a dumb demoniac was brought to him. He healed 
the man so that he was able to talk. The people were astonished at these 
wonderful miracles. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 27. departed — or "passed by," out of the house; cry- 
ing — blind men in the East use their voices freely, v. 28. into 
the house — the blind showed their earnestness by following into 
the house, v. 29. touched their eyes — as a sign of healing; 
your faith — if they had no faith there would be no cure. v. 30. 
charged them — Jesus did not wish to have his work interrupted 
by rulers or by the increasing crowds, v. 31. spread abroad 
his fame — why they did this it is easy to see, but it was mis- 
taken zeal and direct disobedience, v. 32. dumb man — demo- 
niacs were often dumb, that is unable to talk. v. 33. dumb 
spake — this was evidence of a perfect cure. v. 34. through the 
prince of devils — this charge was repeated, and Jesus warned 
the Jews against the awful sin of blasphemy, chap. 12 : 24. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What did the ruler ask Jesus to do ? On the 
way to the ruler's house who touched Jesus ? What did she 
say to herself? What did Jesus say to her after she was 
healed? Who were put out of the room at the ruler's house? 
What did Jesus say of the child ? What did Jesus as he re- 
stored her to life ? 



THE HARVEST AXD THE LABORERS. 61 

OlSr THE LESSON. 

1. Two Blind Men Healed. — Who followed Jesus, and what 

did they say? v. 27. 

In what place did the blind men come to him? y. 28. 
What did Jesus say to them ? How did they answer ? 

"What did Jesus then do, and say to them ? v. 29. 

How did he charge them ? v. SO. Why ? 

How did they treat the charge ? y. 31. Is it right to dis- 
obey any command of Christ ? 

2. Dumb Demoniac Healed. — What is said of the dumb man 

in v. 32? 
When the demon was cast out, what followed ? y. 33. 

What effect had this on the multitude ? 
What did the Pharisees say ? v. 34. What did this charge 

imply as to Christ's character ? Where is a similar charge 

repeated ? Matt. 12 : 24. Of what awful sin were they 

then warned ? 

LESSONS FOB US: 

1. Those blind by nature Jesus restored. 

2. He can restore those who are spiritually blind. 

3. His gifts are often measured by our faith. 

4. Demons are subject to Christ. 

5. Christians are sometimes judged harshly and even 

wickedly. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write a list of the miracles of Jesus mentioned in the New Testa- 
ment. 

2. Narrate the instances in which Jesus restored sight to the blind. 

8. Write an account of the cases of dumb persons whose speech Jesus 
restored. 



LESSON 22. LA. D. 29. 

THE HARVEST AND THE LABORERS. 
Matt. 9 : 35-38 and 10 : 1-4. 

MEMORY TEXT.— The harvest truly is plenteous, but 
the labourers are few ; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the 
harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. 
—Matt. 9 : 37, 33. 



62 



people's lesson book. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Great Har- 

vest. 

2. The Twelve La- 

borers. 



Home Headings. 

M. The Harvest Matt. 9: 35 to 10: 4. 

T. Sending the Twelve..Luke 9 : 1-9. 

W. Christ & Disciples..Mark 3 : 7-19. 

Th. Samuel Called 1 Sam. 3 : 1-18. 

K Choosing Men John 15 : 12-27. 

Sat. Foes and Friends.. Mark 3 : 20-35. 

S. How to Labor Matt. 10 : 9-27. 



©- 



Time. — Probably early winter of A. D. 29. 

Place. — Near the sea of Galilee. 

Persons. — Jesus, the Twelve (see 10 : 2-4). 

Lesson Sketch. — The sight of the crowds of shepherdless people 
seeking him to see his miracles, caused Jesus to pity them. He said to his 
disciples that the harvest, the spiritual harvest, was plenteous, but the 
laborers few. He charges them to pray for laborers to be sent to gather 
souls into God's kingdom. Jesus called twelve disciples and sent them 
out to preach, with power to heal the sick. Read the names of the twelve 
given in chapter 10 : 2-4. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 35. teaching . . . preaching . . . healing— three forms 
of labor in which Jesus engaged, v. 36. with compassion — on 
these multitudes scattered in villages and towns without a shep- 
herd. Jesus was foremost in mission labor among the scattered 
population of the country, and among the 
destitute, v. 37. harvest . . . plenteous — it 
JjfW is not lack of fields but of laborers now as 
then, and of support for them. v. 38. Pray 
■ — Prayer to the Lord of missions, is the 
great source of power now ; let us not for- 
get it. v. 1. called . . . gave them — whom 
Christ calls, to them he gives all needed 
SIMON THE CANAANITE fitness for their work. v. 2. twelve— as 
JUDAS ISCARIOT. twelve tribes, so twelve apostles. They 
may be put in three groups of four each : 
Peter leads the first; Philip the second, and James the Less the 
third group, see Mark 3 : 16; Luke 6 : 14; Acts 1 : 13. v. 4. 
who also betrayed him — one of the twelve proved a traitor ; 
another denied his Master ; two others were ambitious and rash, 
proposing to call down fire from heaven to burn those who dif- 
fered from them. But Jesus trained them all, except Judas, to 
become true apostles. 




THE HABYEST AND THE LABORERS. 63 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What petition did the two blind men make ? 
How did Jesus test their faith ? What was the result ? How 
did Jesus charge them? Did they obey? When did the 
dumb demoniac regain his speech? What effect had these 
Tniracles on the multitude ? How did the Pharisees say Jesus 
did them? 

OK" THE LESSON. 

1. The Great Harvest. — What is the title of this lesson? 
Where did Jesus continue his labors ? v. 35. Near what 

sea were most of these yillages? What was the syna- 
gogue ? 

What awakened his great compassion ? y. 36. How does 
this picture in y. 36 resemble Sunday-school mission 
fields in this land ? 

What did Jesus say of the harvest ? v. 37. 

For what were his disciples to pray ? v. 38. 

2. The Twelve Laborers. — How many disciples did Jesus 

call to special work? Chap. 10 : 1. What power give 
to them? Why? 

What were the names of the twelve ? vs. 2-4. Into how 
many groups may the twelve be divided ? Xame the 
disciple at the head of each group. Which one was a 
traitor ? Which disciple denied his Master ? 

Which two wanted to sit on the throne with Jesus ? Matt. 
20 : 21 ; Mark 10 : 35. 

PKACTICAL LESSONS: 

1. Christ's harvest field is great. 

2. His laborers are few. 

3. We are to pray for laborers in his harvest. 

4. His laborers are called by him. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1". The greatness of the harvest eovc; the number of pagans; of Mo- 
hammedans; of Jews ; of the Greek church ; of the Boman church; of 
Protestants in the world. 

2. Give some account of the first six disciples named in v. 2, 3. 

3. Give some account of the last six in the list 



64 



people's lesson book. 



LESSON" 23. 



[A. D. 29. 



THE CHARGE TO THE TWELVE.— Matt. 10 : 5-15. 

MEMORY TEXT.— And as ye go, preach, saying, The 
kingdom of heaven is at hand.— Matt. 10 : 7. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. "Where to Go and 

"What to Say. 

2. How Provided 

For. 

3. How to Witness 

for Christ. 



Home Headings. 

M. The Jews Called Acts 13 : 14-26. 

T. The Gentiles Hear Acts 13 : 38-48. 

W. Miracles of Healing Acts 3 : 1-12. 

Th. The Charge Mark 6 : 7-13. 

F. Sent Forth Luke 10 : 1-12. 

Sat. The Return Luke 10: 17-24. 

S. Charge to Twelve Matt, 10 : 5-15. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 22. 

Lesson Sketch. — The twelve were directed not to go to the Gen- 
tiles or to the Samaritans, but to the Israelites to preach the kingdom of 
heaven. They were not to make any special preparation for their jour- 
ney ; they need not get extra coats, shoes, or a purse of gold or silver, or 
even a purse of " brass" or copper coins. They were to find those who 
would care for them in the several cities to which they went preaching. 
If they found none in any city to hear or care for them, they were to 
leave that city shaking the dust from their feet as a witness against it. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 5. way of the Gentiles — into Gentile territory ; they were 
to go first toward Jerusalem; 
city of the Samaritans . . . not — ■ 
they were not to go to Jerusalem 
through Samaria, v. 6. lost sheep 
— all were lost who were not 
ready to receive Christ. But Is- 
rael is first to be called, v. 7. 
preach — the same word that John 
and Jesus preached, v. 8. Heal — 
they were to have power to work 
signs, to attest the truth of their 
preaching, v. 9. gold . . . silver . . . 
brass — gold would be the largest 
coins, as now; brass the smallest; 
purses — or strictly, " girdles," 
which were used for purses in the 
East. v. 10. scrip — a bag or wallet, to carry provision, v. 11. 




Girded for walking. 



THE CHABGE TO THE TWELVE. 65 

who . . * worthy — that is, who are the godly, looking for the 
kingdom, v. 13. peace come — the usual salutation in the East, 
would be " peace to you," or "peace to this house." v. 
14. shake off the dust — a symbolic act, showing that they for- 
sook the place, v. 15. more tolerable — Sodomites would have 
a less severe judgment than those who wilfully reject Christ's 
disciples. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What did Jesus say of the harvest? What 
kind of a harvest did he mean ? How was the lack of labor- 
ers to be supplied ? How many did he call to this work ? 
What power did he give to them? 

OK" THE LESSON. 

1. Where to Go and What to Say. — To whom were the twelve 

not to go ? v. 5. 
How does Jesus describe those to whom he sends the 

twelve? v. 6. 
What were they to preach? v. 7. Who had preached 

these words before them ? 
What power did he give to the twelve ? v. 8. 

2. How Provided For. — What were they not to provide in 

their purses? v. 9. What part of the dress is used for 

a purse in the East ? 
What extra clothing were they not to procure ? v. 10. 

What reason is given for this extraordinary charge ? 
For whom were they to inquire in each town? v. 11. 

Where to stay? 
How enter a house? v. 12. If the house was worthy, 

what would be the consequence ? 
If not worthy, what would happen ? v. 13. 

3. How to Witness for Christ. — If persons would not hear, 

what were they to do ? v. 14. What did this act of 
shaking off the dust of their feet signify ? 
What is said of the judgment upon those that rejected their 
message? v. 15. What befell Sodom and Gomorrah? 
Why did it come upon them ? 

WE MAY LEAEM": 

1. How God's promises to Israel were kept. 

2. That God will care for Christian workers who faith- 

fully trust and serve him. 



66 people's lesson book. 

3. That disciples are witnesses in a world of unbelief. 

4. Those who reject Christ's invitation will receive 

great condemnation. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give an account of some other Christian missions mentioned in the 
New Testament. 

2. Write a brief account of Sodom and Gomorrah, and of their destruc- 
tion. 

3. Write an account of the rise of modern missions, and the work of 
Carey, Judson, Moffat and John Williams. (See " Heroes ot Modern 
Missions.") 



LESSON 24. [A. D. 29. 

PERILS TO DISCIPLES: GOD'S CARE FOR THEM. 
Matt. 10 : (6-31. 

MEMORY TEXT.— And fear not them which kill the 
body, but are not able to kill the soul : but rather fear him 
which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.— Matt. 
10:28. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Perils from Rul- 

ers. 

2. Perils from Rel- 

atives. 

3. God's Care for 

Disciples. 



Home Readings. 

M. Sheep Among Wolves... Acts 20 : 28-31. 

T. ' Household Foes Micah7 : 3-7. 

W. Expect Persecution 2 Tim. 3 : 8-13. 

Th. A Way to Escape Acts 9 : 23-31. 

F. As the Master Acts 4 : 13-20. 

Sat. Our Father's Care Ps. 34 : 1-10. 

S. Fear Not Isa. 43 : 1-5. 



m- 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 23. 

Lesson Sketch. — In his charge to the twelve, Jesus said they were 
sent forth as sheep in the midst of wolves. Their mission and preaching 
would arouse the anger and enmity of the Jews, who would arrest and 
scourge the disciples. The gospel would be the occasion of opposition, 
persecution and death. But the disciples need not expect better treat- 
ment than the Master. They need not fear men, but God. He would 
care for them, for he cares for the sparrows. 



perils to disciples: god's cake foe, them. 67 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 16. Sheep . . . wolves — natural enemies to each other; 
one helpless, the other cruel ; wise as serpents — a proverbial 
expression; be wise to do good, not evil ; harmless as doves — 
symbol of innocence, inoffensive, v. 17. to the councils — local 
Jewish courts for trial; scourge you — scourging was a cruel 
mode of punishment ; synagogues — see Diet. v. 18. govern- 
ors and kings — disciples were before Agrippa, Felix, Festus, 
and Caesar; testimony — or witness, to testify for Christ and 




Eastern Sparrow, vs. 29, 31. 

his truth, v. 19. take no thought — be not anxious about either 
the manner or matter of defence; it shall be given you — it 
will be put into your mind. v. 21. brother . . . brother, 
father the child — enmity will break through the ties of kin- 
dred, v. 22. hated of all — Jew and Gentile, everywhere the 
same opposition showed itself, v. 23. persecute . . . flee — 
they were not to seek nor submit to persecution, but if possible 
to avoid it. v. 25. enough — this is their consolation also under 
persecution ; Beelzebub — the devil, and also a term of reproach, 
see Diet. v. 26. Fear them not — have courage ; you may not 
know why they rage, nor why you suffer ; but all will be known. 
v. 28. fear not them that kill the body — man's malice can only 
reach the body, God's penalty for sin reaches body and soul; 
hell — place of future punishment, v. 29. farthing — about 
one cent and a half. v. 30. hairs of your head — a proverbial 
expression for minute care. v. 31. Fear ye not therefore — 
if such be your Father's care, surely no evil can befall you 
without his permission. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review, — To whom were the twelve not sent ? v. 5. 
To what class were they sent? v. 6. What were they to 



68 people's lesson book. 

preach ? What provision were they not to make for the jour- 
ney? vs. 9, 10. What were they to do on entering a town? 
v. 11. How were they to know that the house welcomed 
them ? v. 13. How were they to testify against it, if not re- 
ceived? v. 14. 

OH THE LESSOR. 

1. Perils from Rulers.— How were the disciples sent forth? 

v. 16. What do " sheep" and " wolves" here represent? 

Who are meant by wolves? Why were they to beware 

of false teachers ? 
To whom would the disciples be delivered ? v. 17. What 

is meant by " councils " ? By scourging in synagogues ? 
What more must disciples expect? v. 18. What must 

they be against the Gentiles ? 
When delivered up, what were they not to do ? v. 19. 

What is meant by "take no thought"? What promise 

is given them? Who would speak through and for 

them? v. 20. 

2. Perils from Relatives. — What must they expect from 

friends? v. 21. What would cause this enmity? 
By whom would they be hated ? v. 22. For whose sake 

should they thus suffer ? 
What promise is given in v. 23 ? When persecuted what 

were they to do? What is meant by "till the Son of 

man be come " ? 
Why should this not seem surprising ? v. 24. 
What comfort and encouragement are given in v. 25? 

Who is meant by Beelzebub ? Who is meant by master 

of the house? 

3. God's Care for Disciples. — Why should they not fear? 

v. 26. 
What does he tell them to do ? v. 27. What did he say 

they should not fear ? And why ? 
Whom should they fear? v. 28. Why? What is taught 

in Matt. 16:25? 
What illustrations are given of our Father's care ? vs. 29, 

30. What is the value of a " farthing " ? 
How are disciples valued in v. 31. How does this show 

that persecution and even death need not be feared by 

disciples ? 



CONFESSING CHBIST. 69 

LEAEK" THAT : 

1. The world is not yet a friend to grace. 

2. Never to be ashamed of Christ. 

3. His promise is, "Lo, I am with you alway." 

4. If we fear God we need have no other fear. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some account of the early persecutions of Christians. 

2. Some account of the persecutions under Queen Mary of England. 

3. Some Scripture proofs that God cares for disciples. 



LESSON 25. [A. D, 29. 

CONFESSING CHRIST.— Matt. 10 : 32-42 and I! : I. 

MEMORY TEXT —Whosoever therefore shall confess 
me before men, him will I confess also before my Father 
which is in heaven.— ilatt. 10 : 32. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Confessing 

Christ. 

2. Crosses in the 

World. 

3. Comforts. 



Home Readings. 

M. Confession Matt, 10 : 32-42. 

T. Confession Luke 12 : 1-12. 

W. Peter's Confession Luke 9: 18-27. 

Ih. Confessing Jesus Mark 8 : 27-38. 

F. Trust and Distrust.... Micah 7 : 1-7. 

Sat. Jesus the Christ Matt. 16 : 13-28. 

S. .Receiving a Prophet.l Kings 17 : 8-24. 



Time.— Winter, A. D. 29. 

Place. — Galilee (Third circuit of Christ). 

Persons. — Jesus, the Twelve. 

Lesson Sketch. — Jesus declares that whosoever will confess him 
before men, he will confess before the Father, but whosoever denies 
him before men he will deny. He further shows what foes the disciples 
will have even in their own* homes, but that those who follow him will 
be worthily rewarded. The Lord will reward the smallest kindness done 
to a disciple. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 32. confess me — believers are not to hide their calling; 
I confess — only those who confess him does Jesus promise to 
own. v. 34. not . . . peace . . . but a sword — Christ must 
oppose evil ; this brings on a war at once with wicked hearts. 



70 people's lesson book. 

v. 35. daughter . . . mother — these instances are given to 
show how sharp would be the divisions made by his preaching. 
v. 36. foes ... of his own household — even homes would be 
divided and broken by gospel truth. How fully and sadly 
these words were fulfilled we see in the early persecutions, v. 
38. his cross — referring to the Roman custom of making a man 
bear his own cross to the place of his execution, v. 39. findeth 
his life — he finds or saves his life for this world, and loses it for 
the next; so he loses it to this world, but finds or saves it 
for the next. v. 40. receiveth you . . . me — Christ makes 
himself one with his laborers, v. 42. lose his reward — no act 
of service in his name is overlooked. 11 : 1. made an end — 
this verse marks the conclusion of the charge to the twelve, 
and properly belongs with chapter 10 ; teach and preach — this 
describes a preaching circuit of Jesus in Galilee. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — How were the twelve sent forth ? v. 16. What 
would befall them in the work ? How would they know what 
to answer when arrested? What would befall them among 
relatives ? How were they to avoid persecution ? By what 
to be comforted, when they could not escape it ? By what 
illustrations were they assured of God's care ? 

ON THE LESSON". 

1. Confessing Christ. — What is the title of this lesson ? To 

whom were the words in v. 32 spoken? How were they 
to confess Christ ? In what ways might they deny him? 
Where then would Christ deny them ? v. 33. 

2. Crosses in the World. — What did Christ's coming bring 
on earth? v. 34. Why? 

What is said of household divisions in v. 

35? 
Whom are we to love first and strongest ? 

v. 37. 
Where would a disciple find foes ? v. 36. 
What must each man bear ? v. 38. 
3. Comforts. — State the paradox in v. 39. 
What does it mean ? 
How does Christ make himself one with his servants ? v 40. 
What reward is offered for receiving a prophet ? v. 41. 
What for receiving a righteous man ? 




JESUS* WITNESS TO JOHN. 71 

Who will in no wise lose a reward ? v. 42. What is said 

about v. 1 of chapter 11 ? 
Whither did Jesus go after the charge to the twelve ? 11 : 1. 

LESSONS: 

1. If we confess Christ, he will confess us. 

2. If we deny him, he will deny us. 

3. He and we must oppose sin. 

4. The final reward is sure. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some proof texts showing that we should make a public confes- 
sion of Christ. 

2. Write an account of some of the obstacles which prevent persons 
from making such a concession now. 

3. Give other texts showing that Christ makes himself one with his 
people in their trials. 



LESSON 26. [A. D. 28. 

JESUS' WITNESS TO JOHN.— Matt. II : 2-19. 

MEMOEY VERSE.— For this is he of whom it is writ- 
ten, Behold I send my messenger before thy face, which 
shall prepare thy way before thee.— Matt. 11 : 10. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. John's Question. 

2. The Answer. 

3. Jesus' "Witness 

to John. 

4. The Jews Re- 

proved. 



Home Readings. 

M. Witness to John Matt. 11 : 2-19. 

T. Witness to John Luke? : 18-35. 

W. The Prophecy Isa. 42 : 1-16. 

Th, John's Work". Luke 3 : 3-18. 

F. The Messenger Mai. 3 : 1-18. 

Sat. The Kiugdom Matt. 13 : 1-17. 

S. Elijah's Coming Mai. 4 : 1-6. 



e © 

Time. — Summer of A. D. 28. The events of this lesson are usually 
placed by harmonists immediately after the raising of the widow's son 
at Xain,'and some months before the twelve were sent forth, as narrated 
in chap. 10. 

Place. — Galilee, probably near Capernaum. 
Persons. — Jesus, John, two disciples of John, Jews. 
Lesson Sketch. — John the Baptist in prison hears of the works of 
Jesus. He sends two of his disciples to ask Jesus if he is the promised 



72 



people's lesson book. 



Messiah. Jesus works several miracles of healing. He directs John's 
disciples to tell John what they have seen. After John's disciples had 
gone, Jesus tells the people what John is : not a man in soft clothing, but 
a prophet ; and more than a prophet ; the messenger that was to prepare 
the way for the Messiah. He reproves the Jews for condemning John be- 
cause he was very abstemious, and next the Son of Man, because he 
came eating and drinking. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 2. in prison — Herod had put John in prison, see Matt. 
14 : 2-12 ; works of Christ — John's disciples reported them, 
Luke 7 : 18. v. 3. Art thou lie — Art thou the Messiah ? look 
. . . for another — probably John and his 
disciples were perplexed, and began to 
question whether Jesus was the Christ . v . 4. 
shew John again those things — the mira- 
cles done, and the prophecy fulfilled would 
be more convincing than a word. v. 5. 
blind . . . lame . . . lepers . . . deaf . . . 
dead . . . poor — here are six proofs of the 
character of Jesus as Messiah ; as foretold 
in the Scriptures; John would understand 
them and know they could not be simu- 
lated, v. 6. offended — now he adds a sev- 
enth, also reverting to prophecy in Isa. 53 : 
2. v. 7. A reed — a thing that is wavering 
and whisked about by every wind. v. 8. 
in soft raiment — like a dainty, delicate 
man of society; a modern fop. v. 9. 
prophet — and the greatest of all the class. 
v. 10 refers to the prophecy of Mai. 3:1. 
v. 11. in the kingdom — the least in the 
new kingdom has the finished work of 
Christ, which John did not have. v. 12. 
violent take it — this new kingdom is 
gained by earnest force; John began the 
work; Christ is to complete it with his 
followers, v. 13. until John — read the 
verse, " For until John all the prophets 
and the law prophesied/' and the meaning 
is clear, v. 14. Elias — Elijah, John the 
Baptist was the Elijah of the New Testa- 
ment, v. 16. children sitting — in the 
market or public square, playing at mock 
marriage feasts, and mourning, v. 17. piped — the Eastern peo- 




Eastern Reed. 



JESUS* WITNESS TO JOHN. 73 

pie danced to the music of the pipe or lute ; mourned — plaintive 
strains of music common at funerals, and houses of mourning. 
v. 18. a devil — because John was such an abstemious ascetic. 
v. 19. gluttonous — Jesus was condemned for doing what the 
Jews found fault with John for not doing. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What promise is made to those who confess 
Christ ? What is said of those who deny him ? Who would 
be foes of believers ? Who would really lose his life ? Why ? 
How should giving a cup of cold water be rewarded ? How 
must it be given to get that reward ? 

ON THE LESSOBT. 

1. John's Question. — Who are the two principal persons 

named in this lesson ? 
Where was John at this time? v. 2. Why in prison? 

Matt 14 : 2-12. 
What question did John ask ? v. 3. By whom ? 

2. The Answer. — Did Jesus return a direct answer ? v. 4. 

Why not ? How many proofs did he give ? 
Name the first six? . v. 5. 
What was the seventh ? v. 6. To what prophecv did this 

refer? Isa. 29 : 18 ; 35 : 4-6 ; 42 : 7. 

3. Jesus' Witness to John. — How many questions did Jesus 

ask the people ? v. 7. About whom? 

Who answered them ? vs. 8, 9. 

What prophecy is referred to in v. 10 ? Mai. 3 : 1. 

Who was greater even than John? v. 11. Why is a be- 
liever now greater than John ? 

Who began to open the way for the kingdom of heaven ? 
v. 12. 

Until whose ministry were the prophets and the law ? v. 
13. What law is meant ? (Ceremonial law.) 

Who is the New Testament Elijah ? v. 14. 

What proverb is given in v. 15 ? 

4. Jesus Reproves the Jews. — To what were the Jews com- 

pared in v. 16 ? 
What did the children say to each other? v. 17. 
How had John come? v. 18. What had they said of 

him? 



74 



people's lesson book. 



How had the Son of man come? v. 19. Who is meant 
by the Son of man ? What did the Jews say of Jesus ? 
What proverb closes v. 19 ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. 'When troubled, seek Jesus. 

2. He answers with comforting assurances. 

3. The privileges of believers are great. 

4. "We are to be earnest in Christ's work. 

5. Hear and heed our teacher. 

6. The unbelieving find fault with all believers. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write a brief account of Elijah. 

2. Write a similar narrative of John the Baptist. 



LESSON 27. [A. D. 28. 

REJECTING AND RECEIVING CHRIST.— Matt. I! : 20-30. 

MEMORY VERSE— Come unto me, all ye that labour 
and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.— Matt. 11 : 28. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Divine Judg- 

ments. 

2. Divine Thanks- 

giving. 

3. Divine Invita- 

tion. 



Home Readings. 

M. Judgment and Mercy... Matt. 11 : 20-30. 

T. Exalted Cities Isa. 14 : 1-32. 

W. Sodom .....Gen. 19 : 1-28. 

Th. Jesus and the Father... John 17 : 1-26. 

F. Come unto Me Isa. 55 : 1-13. 

Sat. My Yoke Easy....« John 5 : 1-21. 

S. Rest . Heb. 4 : 1-16. 



Time.— Summer of A. D. 28. 

Place.— Galilee (Bethsaida, Chorazin, Capernaum, Tyre, Sidon and 
Sodom.). 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, people. 

Lesson Sketch. — Jesus pronounces woe upon three cities, Chora- 
zin, Bethsaida and Capernaum for their unbelief. In these cities Jesus 
had done many wonderful miracles, but the people did not believe on 
him. The people of Tyre and Sidon, and even of Sodom, would have 
repented under such divine blessings as the first three cities had enjoyed; 
so woes were coming upon these cities. Jesus praises the wisdom of the 
Father in revealing the gospel to the humble ; invites the weary to come 
to him and find rest. 



REJECTING AND RECEIVING CHRIST. 75 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 20. then— after speaking of John the Baptist; upbraid 
— severely rebuke; the cities — the inhabitants of Chorazin, 
Bethsaida and Capernaum, cities at the northern end of the Sea 
of Galilee, v. 21. sackcloth and ashes — tokens of deepsorrow 
and grief, v. 22. more tolerable — because the old cities had 
less opportunities; day of judgment — see Matt. 25 : 31, 46. v. 
23. exalted unto heaven — by the presence and works of Jesus; 
to hell — to the lowest depths; literally, " Hades ;" remained — 
would have remained because they would have repented, v. 
25. at that time — or " season," probably at the return of the 
seventy, see Luke 10 : 17-22; hid — or " didst hide," they were 
not spiritually discerned; these things — the divine nature of 
Christ and his spiritual kingdom ; wise and prudent — and those 
having understanding about other things, worldly wise; babes 
— the followers of Christ, despised by Pharisees, v. 27. whom- 
soever — "if any of you lack," etc., see James 1:5; the Son — 
will reveal to all who ask in faith, v. 28. all — every condition, 
class, color, age; labor . . . heavy laden — the load of sin heavy 
and hard to carry; rest — from guilt, sin, fear, distress — rest 
from every burden, v. 29. my yoke — my service ; learn of me — 
follow my example; meek and lowly — how easy when com- 
pared with pride and vanity ! find rest — that for which all are 
seeking, v. 30. burden is light — duty becomes pleasure. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Who sent disciples to Jesus ? With what 
question ? How did Jesus answer the question ? What did 
Jesus say of John, when the disciples were gone ? To what 
did he liken the Jews of that generation ? What had they 
said of John? Why? What had they said of Jesus? What 
led them to say it? 

ON THE LESSON. 

I. Divine Judgments— What cities did Jesus upbraid ? v. 20. 

Why did he upbraid them? Where was Chorazin? 

Bethsaida ? Tyre ? Sidon ? Capernaum ? Sodom ? 
What did he say of Chorazin and Bethsaida? v. 21. 
For what cities would it be more tolerable in the judgment 

than for Chorazin and Bethsaida ? v. 22. 
How might Capernaum be exalted? v. 23. 



76 people's lesson book. 

For what place would it be more tolerable in the judgment ? 
v. 24. How has the woe against those cities been ful- 
filled ? How are Christian lands exalted to-day ? What 
may we infer about those who neglect to improve their 
privileges ? 

2. Divine Thanksgiving. — What was the occasion of Christ's 

thanksgiving? v. 25. Who are the "wise and pru- 
dent " ? Who are meant by babes? 

In whose sight did this seem good ? v. 26. 

To whom is all power given? v. 27. To whom will the 
Son reveal the Father ? How may you know the Son ? 

3. Divine Invitation. — What invitation is given in v. 28? 

By whom given ? To whom ? What is promised ? Who 

are the M heavy laden " ? 
W T hat do we get in exchange for the burden of guilt ? v. 

29. 
How is Christ's yoke and burden spoken of in v. 30? 

Why should we learn of Jesus? What is said of his 

yoke and burden ? What is meant by " rest " ? Have 

you accepted this gracious invitation ? 

I heard the voice of Jesus say, 

" Come unto me and rest ; 
Lay down, thou weary one, lay down 

Thy head upon my breast." 
I came to Jesus as I was — 

Weary, and worn, and sad — 
I found in him a resting-place, 

And he has made me glad. 



LESSON 28. [A. D. 28. 

JESUS AND THE SABBATH.— Matt. 12 : 1-13. 

MEMORY VERSE.— For the Son of man is Lord even 
of the sabbath day.— Matt. 12 : 8. 

Time.— A. D. 28. 

Place.— On the road to Galilee. (?) 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, Pharisees, man with withered hand. 



JESUS AND THE SABBATH. 77 



LESSON OUTLINE. | Home Readings. 

1. Errors About the 

Sabbath. 

2. Lord of the Sab- 



bath. 
, Do Good on the 
Sabbath. 



M. The Sabbath Matt. 12 : 1-13. 

T. The Sabbath John o : 1-16. 

W. Good Works Luke 14 : 1-11. 

Th. Bad Works Num. 15 : 32-36. 

K The Spirit of the Law.Isa. 56 : 1-8. 

Sal. Warnings Jer. 17 : 21-27. 

S. Promises Isa. 58 : 8-14. 



Connected History. — Matthew narrates the event in this lesson as 
if it followed the words of Jesus in the last lesson. The facts of this lesson 
are narrated also by Mark and Luke. (Robinson, following more closely 
the order of Luke, puts the events in this lesson before the Sermon on the 
Mount, and following the healing of the infirm man at the pool of Beth- 
esda, John 5 : 1-47.) 

Lesson Sketch.— Jesus and his disciples passed through grain fields 
on the Sabbath. The disciples were hungry, so they began to pick some 
of the ears of grain, and rubbing them in their hands, ate them. The 
Pharisees found fault with them for it. But Jesus declared that it was 
not a sin, and pointed to the example of David, and of the priests. He 
reminded them of the prophet's saying, that God desired mercy before 
sacrifice. On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue, and healed a 
man with a withered hand, and declared that it was right to do good on 
the Sabbath. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. corn — or " grain fields ;" maize or our Indian corn was 
unknown. In England the word "corn" is usually applied to 
wheat, rye, or barley, and in Scotland to oats. v. 2. not lawful— it 
was lawful on other days ; the rabbis held it to be wrong on the 
Sabbath, v. 3. what 'David did— David was their ideal of 
iety. v. 4. did eat the shewbread— David's hunger justified 
lis act : hence, Jesus teaches works of necessity may be done 
on the Sabbath, v. 5. priests . . . profane— that is, they must 
change the shewbread and make offerings on the Sabbath; 
hence, works of necessity may become a " duty " on the Sab- 
bath, especially acts of worship, v. 7. mercy — works of mercy 
are more important than forms of sacrificing, v. 8. Lord . . . 
of the sabbath— as the Jews admitted that the authority of the 
Messiah would be greater than that of the Sabbath, this claim 
was very offensive to the Pharisees, v. 10. withered— the hand 
was paralyzed and dried up; lawful to heal— the Pharisees 
said it was not lawful ; so they hoped to get some ground for 
arresting him. v. 11. fall into a pit— they said it was right to 
pull a beast out of a pit on the Sabbath, v. 12. a man better 



E 



78 



THE PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK. 



— or " of more value," why not then help a man out of distress ? 
He shows that works of " mercy " are lawful on the Sabbath. 
v. 13. Stretch forth — this the man could not do ; but trying to 
do it, Jesus gave him the power. [See Prize Book, "The 
Lord's Day," for interesting discussion of the Sabbath ques- 
tion.] 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — On what cities did Jesus pronounce woes? 
Why ? What cities would have a less condemnation ? Why ? 
For what did Jesus thank the Father ? What invitation did 
he make ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. Errors About the Sabbath.— What is the subject of this 

lesson ? 

What was the occasion of 
a complaint against the 
disciples? v. 1. 

Who made the complaint ? 
v. 2. What grain is 
meant by corn ? 

Who justified the disciples 
in what they did ? v. £ 

What case did Jesus quote 
as justifying it? v. 4. 
How did the Jews regard 
David's piety? What 
had David and his men 
done? 

Who among them did need- 
ful work on the Sabbath ? 
v. 5. What was that 
work, and where done ? 

Who was greater than the 
temple? v. 6. 

What prophecy is quoted 
Eastern Corn. in v. 7? Where is it 

found ? Hos. 6 : 6. 

2. Lord of the Sabbath. — Of what was the Son of man the 

Lord ? v. 8. What did he mean by that ? 




MAUCE OF CHUIST's FOES. 79 

Who was found in the synagogue on the Sabbath ? v. 10. 

What question was asked Jesus ? Why ? 
What instance of their work on the Sabbath did Jesus 

mention? v. 11. 
What two questions then ask? v. 12. 
3. Do Good on the Sabbath. — What principle did he thus 

teach? 
What say to the man with a withered hand? v. 13. With 

what result to the hand ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. "Works of necessity may be done on the Sabbath. 

2. Acts of worship are lawful on the Sabbath. 

3. "Works of mercy are right on the Sabbath. 

4. Jesus had a right to interpret the law of the Sabbath. 

5. Jesus maintained the Sabbath. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write an account of the Sabbath as noticed in the Old Testament. 

2. State some reasons for observing the Sabbath. 

3. Tell how the Sabbath ought to be observed. 



LESSON 29. [A. D. 28. 

MALICE OF CHRIST'S FOES.— Matt. 12 : 14-24. 

MEMORY VERSE— And in his name shall the Gen- 
tiles trust.— Matt. 12 : 21. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Plot to Kill. 

2. The Prophecy. 

3. The Wicked 

Charge. 



Home Readings. 

M. Malice of Pharisees.... Matt. 12 : 14-24. 

T. Avoiding Danger Mark 3 : 7-12. 

W. Prophecy Fulfilled Isa. 42 : 1-7. 

Th. Silent Working Luke 17 : 20-25. 

F. Sure Eesults Isa. 53: 10-12. 

Sat. Son of David Jer. 23 : 5-7. 

S . Malicious Charge Mark 3 : 22-30. 



Time.— Summer, A. D. 28. 

Place.— Galilee. 

Persons. — Jesus, his disciples, Pharisees, man with a withered hand. 



80 people's lesson book. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— The Pharisees were angry with Jesus, 
yet he was always doing good. They wanted to kill Jesus. So he went 
away from them to another place. Many people followed him, and he 
healed them. He fulfilled what the prophet Isaiah had said of the meek- 
ness and gentleness of the Messiah. When Jesus had healed a blind and 
dumb man, possessed with a demon, the Pharisees again found him, and 
said he cast out demons by the power of the prince of devils. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 14. Pharisees . . . held a council — consulted together ; 
how they might destroy him — in what way it could be done, 
they were angry, Luke 6 : 11. v. 15. withdrew himself— to 
the sea of Galilee, Mark 3:7; not through fear, nor from the mul- 
titude, but only that his work might not be interrupted ; healed 
them all — all who needed healing, v. 16. charged — enjoined 
strictly; not make him known — that he was the Christ, v. 17. 
This conduct was in fulfillment of prophecy, Isa. 42 : 1. v. 18. 
my servant — in reference to his work; my beloved — the " be- 
loved servant" of the prophecy is the " Beloved Son" of the 
Gospels ; shew judgment — make known the gospel to the Gen- 
tiles — or all nations, v. 19. not strive, nor cry — not with con- 
tention and howling, v. 20. bruised reed . . . not break — not 
to destroy but to save ; expresses sympathy also; smoking flax 
. . . not quench — the dim lamp-wick he will not put out; 
feeble piety he will kindle to a flame ; till 
— expresses the object in view; that the 
gospel may be victorious, v. 21. in his 
name — that is in him; Gentiles trust- 
depend upon him alone for salvation, v. 
22. possessed with a devil — see Diet.; 
blind, and dumb — could neither see nor 
speak — the effect of such possession, v. 
^0^ 23. amazed — filled with wonder; Son of 
David — the Messiah ; the miracle perhaps 
reminded them of Isa. 35 : 5. v. 24. Pharisees — it is implied, 
Mark 3 : 22, that they had come to watch him ; they said — 
maliciously, to check the popular enthusiasm; by Beelzebub 
— unable to deny, the miracle, they would destroy the character 
of him who wrought it. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the title of the last lesson ? Who 
found fault with the disciples ? Why ? By what examples 
did Jesus justify the disciples ? What man did he heal on 
the Sabbath? 




:ualice of Christ's foes. 81 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. Plot to Kill. — What made the Pharisees such bitter ene- 

mies of Jesus ? 
What did they hold and for what purpose? v. 14 What 

is meant by holding a council ? 
When Jesus knew it, what did he do ? v. 15. Who followed 

him? 
What was commanded them? v. 16. Why did he give 

this command ? 

2. The Prophecy. — What prophecy did Jesus thus fulfil ? v. 17. 
What was the prophecy? v. 18. To whom does this 

prophecy relate ? Why is Jesus called servant ? Why 

beloved ? What would be upon him ? 
What should be his character ? v. 19. 
How would he show his tenderness ? v. 20. Meaning of 

"send forth judgment"? What do vs. 18-20 imply in 

respect to the manner of his work? Meaning of 

" bruised reed " ? Of " smoking flax " ? _ 
Who are the Gentiles? v. 21. What is said of them? 

What is implied by this ? 

3. The Wicked Charge. — Who was brought to Jesus? v. 22. 

What besides blindness and inability to speak ailed this 

man ? What did Jesus do to him ? 
What effect had this upon the people ? v. 23. What did 

they mean by " Son of David" ? Why did they suppose 

he might be the Messiah ? 
What did the Pharisees say? v. 24. Why were they 

there ? Who is meant by Beelzebub ? What did they 

intend by their charge ? 

LESSONS FOB US: 

1. Jesus had bitter enemies. 

2. He blesses those that seek him. 

3. If he withdraws from any it is because of hostility to 

him. 

4. His kingdom shall yet triumph in spite of all that 

wicked men may do. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Narrate the facts of this lesson in your own words. 

2. Describe the instances of healing the demoniacs mentioned in the 
Gospels. 

3. Give three Bible instances showing the pity of the Saviour. 



82 people's lesson book. 

LESSON 30. [A.D. 28. 

FOES REBUKED AND WARNED.— Matt. 12 : 25-37. 

MEMORY VERSE.— But I say unto you, That every 
idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account 
thereof in the day of judgment.— Matt. 12 : 36. 

© ■ ■ © © 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Foes Rebuked. 

2. Foes "Warned. 



Home Readings. 

M. Foes Rebuked Matt. 12 : 25-37. 

T. Christ's Kingdom Ps. 47 : ^9. 

W, No Neutrality Josh. 24: 14-25. 

Th. Good Fruit Gal. 5 : 22-26. 

F. Corrupt Fruit Gal. 5 : 16-21. 

Sat. Christ the Judge Matt. 25 : 31-46. 

S. Rule of Judgment.. ..2 Cor. 5 : 9-19. 



Time.— Summer, A.D. 28. 

Place.— Galilee. 

Persons.— Jesus, Pharisees, his disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus answers the charge made against 
him in verse 24. He shows that if a state or a family is at war with 
itself it works its own ruin, and that the same must be true of Satan's 
kingdom. If then he is liable to such a charge, it must also lie against 
some of their own people. But he gives the true explanation that it was by ' 
the power of God, for only a power greater than Satan's would be able to 
dispossess him. Here is the evidence that the kingdom of God is set up; 
to which Satan and all his allies are opposed. Having answered this 
charge, Jesus then warns them of the fearful sin to which their charge 
is leading them. He points out their true character ; and that they will 
be judged, not by their wicked actions merely, but by their words, since 
these come from an evil heart. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 25. knew their thoughts — he had divine knowledge ; 
they spake to the people not to him; kingdom . . . city or 
house divided — such internal strife leads to ruin. v. 26. Satan 
— means adversary ; here it means the same person as Beelzebub ; 
cast out Satan — he shows how absurd their charge is by this 
reasoning; against himself — to destroy his own power, v. 27. 
your children — some Jews who professed to cast out devils, v. 
29. An illustration : strong man's — not Satan here, but a case 
supposed, any powerful man ; spoil his goods — rob him ; first 
bind — a common mode of robbery in the East. v. 30. He that 



FOES REBUKED AND WARNED. 83 

is not with me is against me — teaches that Satan and his co- 
workers are opposed to Christ, v. 31. All manner of sin — 
every kind of sin; blasphemy — speaking of God and divine 
things with irreverence; be forgiven — pardoned; unto men — 
not all the sins of every one, but every kind of sin to some, 
with this exception ; blasphemy against the Holy Ghost — this 
seems to imply the wilful, malicious and final resistance of the 
influence of the Holy Spirit. This sin the Pharisees were in 
danger of committing when they ascribed Christ's miracle to the 
agency of Satan, v. 32. in this world . . . world to come — 
here or hereafter, another way of saying it shall never be for- 
given, v. 33. make the tree good — a fair rule of judgment, 
the fruit shows what the tree is. v. 34. generation of vipers 
— race of a wicked nature, Gen. 3 : 15. Their malice is ac- 
counted for by reference to their nature, v. 36. idle word — 
includes both wicked and frivolous words, v. 37. justified — ap- 
proved as good; condemned — because evil. 

QUESTIONS, 

For Review. — What is the title of the last lesson? What 
prophecy did Jesus fulfil ? Whom did he heal ? v. 22. 
What did the Pharisees say of Jesus ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. Foes Rebuked. — To whom had the charge against Jesus 

been spoken? Who knew of it? v. 25. How did 
Jesus know of it ? What was implied in this ? What 
did Jesus say to them ? 

How does v. 26 answer their charge ? 

What further question did he ask them ? v. 27. Who 
were meant by "your children"? What did they pre- 
tend to do? What is meant by "they shall be your 
judges''* ? How was this an answer to their charge ? 

What was the true explanation of the miracle? v. 28. 

How did Christ illustrate his work ? v. 29. Who is 
meant by the "strong man'*? What by "spoiling his 
goods" ? What did he intend to teach by this? 

What did he then say? v. 30. What does this teach? 
How does he here rebuke his accusers ? 

2. Foes Warned. — What is said about forgiveness of sin? v. 

31. What is sin? What is blasphemy ? Who forgives 



84 



PEOPLE^ LESSON BOOK. 



sin ? What sin may be forgiven ? What sin will not be 

forgiven ? 
What contrast is expressed in v. 32? Meaning of this? 

What words teach that this sin will never be forgiven ? 
What rule of judging is given here? v. 33. How does 

it apply in this case ? 
What does Christ call his accusers? v. 34. Meaning of 

this? How does this explain their conduct? 
What is said of a good man ? v. 35. Of an evil man ? 
For what must we give an account ? v. 36. What do 

words and actions therefore show ? 
By what then will men be judged ? v. 37. When will 

that be ? Who will be the judge ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. There are two kingdoms, God's and Satan's ; to which 

do we belong P 

2. Christ has conquered Satan; he is able therefore to 

deliver us. 

3. True reformation must begin with the heart. 

4. Our words and actions show what we are; and by 

them we will be judged. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write an account of the nature and work of the Holy Spirit as 
described in Scripture. 

2. Give Scripture proofs that God forgives sin. 

3. State in your own words the substance of what the Bible says of a 
day of judgment. 



LESSOJS" 31. 

WRONG VIEWS ABOUT CHRIST. 
6 •- 



[A. D. 28. 

-Matt. 12 : 38-50. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Sign. 

2. Unclean Spirit. 

3. Christ's Friends. 



Home Readings. 

M. Wrong Views of Christ.Matt. 12 : 38-50. 

T. Jonah Jonah 1 : 11-17. 

W. Men of Nineveh Jonah 3 : 1-10. 

Th. Queen of Sheba 1 K'gs 10 : 1-13. 

F. Unrest Job 1 : 6-12. 

Sat. Worse than the First ...2 Pet. 2 : 19-22. 
S. Christ's Friends John 15 : 12-17. 



WBONG VIEWS ABOUT CHRIST. 85 

MEMORY VERSE.— For whosoever shall do the will 
of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, 
and sister, and mother.— Matt. 12 : 50. 

Time— A. D. 28. 

Place.— Galilee. 

Persons. — Jesus, scribes, Pharisees, Jonah, Queen of Sheba, Solomon, 
Mary, Jesus' brethren. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — The Jews not satisfied by the miracle of 
healing the blind, dumb man, asked for a special sign from heaven. Jesus 
refused to give the sign. But he said that the prophet Jonah should be a sign 
to them. Jonah was a type of our Saviour's burial and resurrection. The 
men of Nineveh, and the Queen of Sheba would witness against them. 
The Jews would become worse and worse as a nation, ending in ruin. 
The mother and brethren of Jesus nail for him. From this call, he is led 
to declare that his nearest friends and kindred are those who do his 
Father's will. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 38. certain of the scribes— not the same persons but of 
the same class as those noticed in the last lesson ; Master — 
teacher ; we would see — we wish to see ; implies more than a 
request, see Luke 11 : 16. v. 39. evil and adulterous genera- 
tion — a wicked race ; no sign be given — not such as they de- 
manded ; of the prophet Jonas — or Jonah, see Luke 11 : 30. 
Jonah was thus a type of Christ, v. 40. three days . . . three 
nights — according to the Jewish mode of speaking, parts of 
days were reckoned as whole days ; in this case, one whole 
day and parts of two others; whale's — or great fish; heart 
of the earth — the grave, v. 41. men of Nineveh — the cap- 
ital and greatest city of Assyria ; those to whom Jonah was 
sent; condemn it — tney were heathen ; you, the chosen people; 
they repented — under the preaching of Jonah, and were spared ; 
you, will remain impenitent under the preaching of the Son of 
God and perish, v. 42. queen of the south — Queen of Sheba, 
1 Kings 10 : 1, a name for a region in Arabia, famed for its 
spices; uttermost parts — literally, " the ends" — from a great 
distance, v. 43. he walketh through dry places — a reference 
to the common notion that evil spirits haunt desert places, v. 
44. garnished — made clean and bright, v. 45. last state . . . 
worse than the first — more completely under the power of 
evil; Even so . . . unto this wicked generation — like this sup- 
posed case, the Jews would become worse and worse, v. 46. 
While he yet talked — see Mark 3 : 21 ; his own relatives had 
wrong views of his character and work, and were troubled for 
his safety ; his brethren — Mark 6 : 3, mentions James, Joses, 



00 PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK. 

Judas and Simon. Who is my mother — He does not disown 
her ; but as in Luke 2 : 49, his work must be his chief concern : 
and in v. 49 his care for his disciples is more to him than the 
natural ties of kindred, v. 50. whosoever shall do the will, 
etc. — every such one is a disciple; and to every disciple he sus- 
tains these tender relations. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What is the title of the last lesson ? Against 
what great sin did Jesus warn the Jews? What did he say 
of a good man? v. 35. Of what must men give an account ? 
When ? By what will they be judged ? 

OlST THE LESSON. 

1. The Signs.— What did the Jews ask of Christ? v. 38. 

What did they mean by " a sign " ? 
What answer did he give them? v. 39. What did he 

call them ? 
What sign did he give them v. 40 ? In what way was 

Jonah a sign to them? How long was our Saviour 

buried? What did his resurrection declare him to be? 
What is said of the men of Nineveh ? v. 41. What effects 

followed Jonah's preaching? How would the Ninevites 

condemn those to whom Christ preached ? 
Who else would condemn the Jews? v. 42. What did the 

Queen of Sheba do? How condemn that generation? 

Who was the one greater than Solomon ? 

2. Unclean Spirit. — What other illustration did Jesus use? 

v. 43. Meaning of "unclean spirit" ? 

What is said of such an one ? v. 44. What popular Jew- 
ish opinion is referred to ? What is taught in the ex- 
pression " walketh through dry places," etc. ? 

What does he finally do? v. 45. What is meant by 
" empty, swept and garnished " ? What is said of that 
man's condition ? Why worse ? How does all this apply 
to that people ? 

3. Christ's Friends. — Who came to him while he was talk- 

ing ? v. 46. Who was his mother ? What names are 
mentioned in Mark 6:3? 
Why did they come ? v. 47. 



PARABLE OF THE SOWER. 87 

"What answer was given to their message ? v. 48. 

What did he say to his disciples ? v. 49. 

How does he express his tender love for them ? v. 50. 

LESSONS FOB US: 

1. ""What think ye of Christ " ? is the test question. 

2. Unbelief blinds the understanding and the heart. 

3. "Wicked men grow worse and worse. 

4. Sin must die in us, or we die. 

5. Are we friends or foes of Christ? 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write a narrative of Jonah, and show how he was a type of Christ. 

2. Write a narrative of the interview of the Queen of Sheba with 
Solomon. 

3. Write an account of Xazareth and the brethren mentioned in the 
lesson. 



LESSON 32. [A. D. 28. 

PARABLE OF THE SOWER.— Matt. 13 : 1-9 and 18-23. 

MEMORY VERSE— But he that received seed into 
the good ground is he that heareth the word, and under- 
standeth it ; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, 
some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.— Matt. 13 : 23. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Parable Luke 8 : 4-1-5. 

1. The Parable. T - T T >e Seed 1 Peter 1 : 22-25. 

W. Lnfruitful boil John o: 39-4*. 

-'■„„.•" -, , Th. Good Ground Ps. 37 : 1-1L 

2. ±ne Exp Ian a- K The Tried One Luke 22 : 31-40. 

tion \ Sat. The Wicked World... 1 John 2 : 15-26. 
S. Bringing Sheaves.. Ps. 126 : 1-6. 



© 



Time.— Autumn, A. D. 28. 

Place. — Sea of Galilee, near Capernaum. 

Persons. — Jesus, the twelve, the multitude. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — This is the "parable chapter"in Matthew 
— a chapter in which are grouped together seven parables of our Lord, 
which bear a close relation to each other. But while they may .all have 



88 people's lesson book. 

been given the same day, they were not all spoken at the same time. 
What a beautiful picture is presented in the scene of the giving of these 
parables! Imagine a quiet, sunny day ; Jesus with a few of his disciples 
seated in a ship on the still waters of Galilee, a short distance from the 
shore, on which were gathered the multitudes, while on the distant 
mountain-slope may have been seen a husbandman scattering seed. 
Jesus compares spiritual work to the sowing of seed in the ground. He 
describes a sower going forth to sow. The seeds fall upon four kinds of 
soil : 1. Upon the hard soil of the path and by the wayside. 2. Upon 
very thin soil, over the broad, flat rock. 3. Among the thorns. 4. Upon 
good soil, well prepared to receive the seed. The first were devoured by 
birds ; the second sprang up, quickly but wilted when the sun arose ; the 
third were choked by the thorns; but the fourth bore good fruit. The 
parable illustrates the result of spiritual teaching: the devil snatches 
away the truth in one; sneers and persecution drive the truth from the 
second; riches and prosperity choke it in the third; and only in the 
fourth does it come to any fruitage. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. The same day — or on that day; out of the house — 
perhaps where his mother and brethren sought him, Matt. 12 : 46; 
sea side — the shore of the sea of Galilee, v. 2. into a ship — 
or properly a fishing boat. v. 3. spake many things — out of 
the many things Matthew selects seven parables, see sketch; 
Behold, a sower — this very scene may have been visible on the 
hills beyond and above them. v. 4. he sowed — on four kinds 
of ground, see sketch; by the way side — the seed falls on, but 
not in the earth; so the truth is heard, but 
^LL *. no * understood ; the fowls came — as the 
birds devoured the seed, so Satan snatches 
away the word from wayside hearers, see 
v. 19. v. 5. stony places — or over a rocky 
place ; here the seed had a little but not 
much earth, so the truth is heard and 
moves the heart for a moment, but is soon 
THE GOOD SEED forgotten, see v. 21. v. 7. among thorns 
— or upon the thorns ; the hearers of the 
truth are full of cares, pleasures, or trying to get rich, and the 
word is choked as thorns choke the seed, see v. 22. v. 8. good 
ground — hearts prepared for the truth and receiving it; hun- 
dredfold, . . . sixtyfold, . . . thirtyfold— the fruit-fulness 
varied according to the character and the capacities of the re- 
ceiver and according to the gifts of grace, v. 19. wicked one— 
the devil, who catcheth away the truth as the birds do the seed. 
v. 21. not root — his religion is shallow, and all on the surface, 
but not reaching the heart, v. 22. thorns — represent the love 
and deceit of riches, which destroy religious life. 




PAYABLE OF THE &BWW3R. 89 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the subject of the last lesson? 
Eecite the Memory Text. What sign alone would be given 
to that generation? What illustrations are used ? State the 
substance of the last one. Who came to speak to Jesus and 
for what purpose ? 

OST THE LESSON". 

1. The Parable. — What is the title of this lesson? 

Where did Jesus go from the house? v. 1. By what sea 

was the parable spoken? 
Where did the people stand ? v. 2. 
How did he begin this parable ? v. 3. Into how many 

kinds of ground did the seed fall ? 
Where did the first seed fall ? t. 4. What became of it ? 
Where did other seed fall? v. 5. 
What became of that ? v. 6. 

What kind of ground is meant by " stony places " ? 
Why was this seed not fruitful ? 

What happened to the seed among the thorns? v. 7. 
What to that in good ground ? v. 8. 
What warning closes the parable? v. 9. 

2. The Explanation. — To whom was the explanation of the 

parable given ? Luke 8 : 9. Why was it given? What is to 
be noted in all the four cases described ? What is meant 
by the seed? The ground? To what is the result in 
each case due ? 

What is said of the wayside hearer? v. 19. How does it 
show that it is his fault if he is not profited ? Who catches 
away the word? Why does such a hearer lose it? 

What is said of the stony ground hearer ? v. 20. 

What tests the piety of such ? v. 21. Meaning of " thorns " ? 

How do they choke the word? v. 22. How does this case 
differ from the last ? 

What does the "good ground'' indicate? v. 23. What 
are the four characteristics of profitable hearing? How 
does such a hearer differ from the others. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS : 

1. Satan is always seeking to catch, away the truth. 

2. Truth must be received in the heart to yield its fruit. 



90 



PEOPLE'S LESSON J300K. 



3. Only true piety will stand the test. 

4. The "world" is never a friend to "grace." 

5. "We need to take heed how we hear ; as well as -what 

we hear. 



THE SOWERS. 

Parents. 

Ministers. 

Teachers, 


THE SEED. 

God's Word. 
Good Example. 
Good Advice. 


THE SOIL. 
Hard Hearts, 
Worldly Hearts. 
Fruitful Hearts. 


THE SEED SOWN 
Wayside. 
Rocky Places. 
In Thorns. 
Good Ground. 




THE RESULT. 
Devoured. 
Withered. 
Choked. 
Fruitful. 






LESSON 33. 


[A. D. 28. 



WHY CHRIST TAUGHT IN PARABLES. 

Matt. 13 : 10-17 and 34, 35. 

MEMORY VERSE.— He answered and said unto them, 
Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the 
kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.— Matt. 
13 : 11. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Question. 

2. The Prophecy. 



Home Readings. 

M. Mysteries Revealed 1 Cor. 2 : 7-13. 

T. Knowledge Increased..2 Peter 1 : 5-11. 

W. Evil Heart John 12:37-43. 

Th. Gospel Day Luke 1 : 68-79. 

F. The Prophets 1 Peter 1 : 10-12. 

Sat.. Righteous Men Heb. 11 : 13-16. 

S. Knowledge Perfect 1 Cor. 13 : 8-13. 



Time.— A. D. 28. 

Place. — Galilee, near Capernaum. 



WHY CHRIST TAUGHT IN PARABLES. 91 

Persons.— Jesus, his disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — The disciples asked two questions: the 
meaning of the parable of the sower, Mark 4 : 10 and 21 ; and why Jesus 
spake in parables. His answer showed that it was because a parable an- 
swered the double purpose of revealing and concealing. It instructed 
those whosincerely desired to know the truth. It did not expose the truth 
to cavils and misrepresentations from those who would wilfully reject 
it. He shows that in Jewish wilful blindness the prophecy of Isaiah is ful- 
filled. Then he adds to his disciples, "Blessed are your eyes, for they 
Bee." They were blessed for a twofold reason: (1) their present know- 
ledge was a pledge of an increase of knowledge, and (2) they lived in a day 
when the promise of salvation was fulfilled. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Terse 10. Why speakest — why use this method of teaching, 
v. 11. given unto you— spiritual knowledge is God's gift; mys- 
teries — anything secret, which cannot be known until it is re- 
vealed; spiritual truths which are only known as God reveals 
them, 1 Cor. 2 : 14. v. 12. whosoever hath — whoever receives 
and uses truth shall have more; whosoever hath not — whoever 
does not improve what he receives loses it — like the wayside 
hearer; or as in Luke 8 : 18, "that which he seemeth to have," 
or thinketh he has. v. 13. they seeing", see not — states the fact 
in the form of a proverb. Theirs was a mere intellectual hear- 
ing and seeing, without any spiritual perception of the truth. 
v. 14. of Esaias — Greek form of Isaiah ; this quotation is from 
Isa. 6:9. v. 15. waxed — become; gross — in the sense of in- 
sensible; eyes . . . closed— sealed up. Wilful shutting the 
eyes may cause total blindness, both physically and spiritually ; 
converted — turned from their sins; heal — forgive them, Mark 
4 : 12. v. 16. blessed are your eyes — happy are ye, my disci- 
ples, (1) as compared with the spiritually blind, and (2) as 
compared with those who lived before Christ came, v. 35. 
prophet— see Diet., refers to Ps. 78 : 2. 

QUESTIONS. 
For Review. — What is the title of the last lesson ? On 
how many kinds of ground did the seed fall? What hap- 
pened to the seed falling on the first kind ? What to that 
falling on the rocky ground? To that which fell among 
thorns ? How fruitful was the seed on the good soil ? What 
spiritual lesson does this parable of the sower teach ? 

OlST THE LESSON. 
I. The Question. — What question did the disciples ask Jesus? 
v. 10. 



92 people's lesson book. 

How did he answer them? v. 11. What had been given 
to them which others had not received ? What is meant 
by " mysteries of the kingdom of heaven " ? How are 
these made known ? 

What is said of those who receive and use their gifts ? 
v. 12. What of others? 

Why then did he speak to others in parables? v. 13? 
How does he describe their condition ? Meaning of this ? 
What kind of hearers are these ? 
2. The Prophecy. — What prophecy is fulfilled in them? v. 
14. How was this description true of them ? 

What is said of their heart? v. 15. Meaning of this? 
Of "their ears"? Of "their eyes"? Why all this? 
What shows that it was their fault ? 

Who were blessed ? v. 16. And why ? 

What encouragement have we to come to the Saviour ? v. 
17. What is a prophet? What other prophecy was 
fulfilled ? Where is it found ? How are Christ's disciples 
blessed as compared with others? As compared with 
those who lived before Christ came? What prophets 
and righteous men are spoken of. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. "We may as surely fail of salvation by neglecting as by 

refusing it. 

2. Salvation is God's gift ; yet we can blame none but 

ourselves if we lose it. 

3. Above all things we need to set a guard upon our 

hearts. 

4. Have we known Christ's healing power. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some account of the number and character of the parables in 
the Old Testament. 

2. Give a similar account of the parables in the Gospels. 



LESSON 34. [A. D. 28. 

THE WHEAT AND THE TARES.— Matt. 13 : 24-30, 36-43. 

MEMORY TEXT.— The field is the world; the good 
seed are the children of the kingdom ; but the tares are 



THE WHEAT AND THE TABES. 93 

the children of the wicked one ; The enemy that sowed 
them is the devil ; the harvest is the end of the world ; and 
the reapers are the angels.— Matt, 13 : 38, 39. 

© ® 

LESSON OUTLINE 

1. The Parable. 



2. The Explana- 
tion. 



Home Headings. 

31. The Sower Isa. 53 : 1-12. 

T. The Good Seed Rev. 7 : 9-17. 

W. The Field Mark 16 : 15-20. 

Th. The Enemy 1 Peter 5 : 1-11. 

F. The Tares John 8 : 34-47. 

Sat. The Harvest ...Matt. 25 : 31-46. 

S. The Reapers Rev. 14 : 13-20. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 32. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — The parable of the tares and the wheat 
naturally follows that of the sower. In the parable of the sower, all the seed 
was good. Only the ground varied, and was not all fitted for the seed. 
But there are some cases of unfruitfulness caused by bad seed. This is 
true in the spiritual as in the earthly harvest. This 'parable is given lest 
laborers be discouraged in such cases. It tells of the final separation of 
the righteous and the wicked. »A farmer sowed wheat in his field. He 
did not expect to have tares: but there were tares. An enemy secretly 
sowed them. In the harvest, however, a separation was to be made : the 
worthless tares were to be burned ; but the wheat put into the barn. So 
in the world, good and bad grow together. The bad are the devil's seed 
and work. They will be burned at last as tares were burned at harvest 
time. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 24. kingdom of heaven — Christ's visible kingdom, his 
church in the world, v. 25. while men slept — at night when 
men should sleep ; it does not imply censure ; tares — resembling 
wheat but a noxious plant, known as darnel ; went his way — 
the foul seed was sown secretly, v. 26. "brought forth fruit — 
the mischief was not discovered until the grain was nearly ripe. 
v. 28. An enemy — wheat did not become tares; but an enemy 
sowed them; Wilt thou . . .we . . . gather — implying a will- 
ingness, and their opinion that it ought to be done. v. 29. Nay 
— no — not now — not at all by you. v. 30. reapers — literally the 
harvesters ; Gather . . . first the tares — complete separation will 
then be made; tares . . . to burn them — because worthless; 
wheat — put into the garner, v. 36. went into the house — pro- 
bably that of Simon and Andrew, see Mark 1 : 29. v. 38. 
field the world — not the church ; but the world in which the 
church is planted; good seed — in the parable of the sower the 



94 



people's lesson book. 



seed was the word ; here it is that which the word produces; 
children of the kingdom — true Christians, v. 39. end of the 
world — literally the completion of the age ; the end of the pres- 
ent state of things, v. 40, as . . . so — emphatic words, " as" 
in the earthly harvest there is a separation, " so " shall it be in 
the spiritual harvest, v. 42. furnace of fire, . . . wailing — 
signify awful, hopeless torment. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What is the topic of the last lesson? Why 
did Jesus speak in parables ? Recite the Memory Verse of 
that lesson ? What prophecy was fulfilled ? 

ON THE LESSOET. 

I. The Parable — What is this parable called? 
How is it introduced ? v. 24. What are tares? What do 
they here represent ? 

Who sowed the seed of them? v. 25. 

Why did he sow them ? 
When were they discovered among the 

wheat? v. 26. 
What did the servants ask ? v. 27. 
What did they propose to do ? v. 28. 
How were they answered ? v. 29. Why 
were they forbidden to gather up the 
tares ? 
How long should both grow together? 
v. 30. What were the reapers first to 
do ? What should be done with the 
wheat ? 
—Where did Jesus go after sending the 
multitude away? v. 36. Who came to him? What 
did they ask of him ? 
Who is the sower? v. 37. 

What the field? v. 38. The good seed? How does the 
seed differ in this parable from that in the parable of 
the sower? Who are children of the kingdom? ^Who 
are meant by the tares ? Who are meant by the children 
of the wicked one ? 
Who is the wicked one? v. 39. Whose enemy is he? 
When will the harvest be ? 




Tares. 

2. The Explanation 



FIVE PARABLES, 



95 



What will the angels do? v. 40. 

Who will send them? v. 41. Who is the Son of man? 

How will he then appear ? 
What will be done to the wicked ? v. 42. 
What will become of the righteous ? v. 43. With what 

warning does the lesson close ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS : 

1. Satan is the enemy of souls, and ever active. 

2. The evil among the good are like tares among wheat ; 

useless and hurtful. 

3. The wicked will be finally separated from the right- 

eous. 



TWO SOWERS. 


TWO CLASSES. 


D eceitful, 


J ust, 


T roublesome, 


W orthy. 


E nvious, 


E xcellent. 


A bominable, 


H oly. 


V ile, 


S potless, 


R ebellious, 


E xalted, 


1 niquitous, 


U ndefiled. 


E vil. 


A ctive, 


L iar. 


S aviour, 


S infill. 


T riumphant. 



LESSON 35. [A. D. 28. 

FIVE PARABLES.— Matt. 13 : 31-33, 44-50. 

MEMORY VERSE— So shall it be at the end of the 
world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked 
from among the just.— Matt. 13 : 49. 



LESSON OUTLINE. Home Readings. 
1. The Mustard JL Outward Growth Zech.4 



Seed. 

2. The Leaven. 

3. Hid Treasure. 

4. The Pearl. 

5. The Net. 



T. Inward Growth Col. 3: 

W. Hid Treasure Ps. 25 : 

Th. Goodly Pearls Pro v. 2 

F. Of Every Kind Matt. 2: 

Sat. The Separation, Matt. 2: 

S. The Heavenly State Eev. 21 



: 5-10. 

1-17. 

4-14. 

: 13-20. 
2 : 1-10. 
2 : 11-14. 

: 21-27. 



96 people's lesson book. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— In these five parables the Saviour speaks 
of the kingdom of heaven. Like the mustard seed, it will grow ; at first 
small, it will become strong; the outward and visible growth of the king- 
dom is shown by this. By its hidden inner workings it changes the soul 
and society, as leaven changes the meal. It is also like a treasure hid in a 
field which one finds unexpectedly, and hides again until he can buy the 
field. It is like the goodly pearl, which one may find ; and he gladly 
sells all that he has to buy it. Again, the kingdom is like a large drag 
net which gathers up every kind of fish, but the good only are kept, and 
the bad are thrown away. This shows the final separation of the wicked 
and the righteous. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 31. like , . . mustard seed — the points of resemblance 
are : small beginnings, growth, size and strength when grown, 
v. 32. least of all seeds — the smallest of sown seeds ; greatest 
among herbs — literally greater than the herbs; a tree — in 
comparison with other herbs, v. 33. leaven — yeast mixed with 
dough to make it light. Here the reference is not to the char- 
acter of the fermenting substance, but only to its secret active 
influence; three measures — about three or four pecks, v. 44. 
hid in a field — valuables were often thus hidden to save them 
from robbers; buyeth that field — that he might claim the 
treasure in it, rightfully, according to Eastern ideas, v. 45. 
seeking goodly pearls — a pearl dealer or peddler, knowing 
their value, v. 46. This parable agrees with the last in teach- 
ing: (1) the value of true religion; and (2) we should give up 
all to possess it. It differs from it: in that the treasure found 
is sought for, while before it was unexpectedly found, v. 47. 
net — large drag net. v. 48. sat down — implies deliberate care 
in separating them. vs. 49, 50. This also means that there will 
be a final separation of the bad from the good. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What is the title of the last lesson ? Who 
sowed the tares ? When ? Who suffered them to grow with 
the wheat ? When were they gathered up ? 

ON THE LESSOET. 

What is the subject of all of these parables ? What points 

of resemblance are noticed ? 
To what is the kingdom likened in v. 31 ? How is it like 

mustard seed ? 
What is the kingdom said to resemble in v. 33. What is 



FIVE PARABLES. 97 

leaven ? What use of it is made in this parable ? How 
much was a " measure " ? What does this parable teach 
in regard to the kingdom ? 

To what is the kingdom likened in v. 44. Where was a hid 
treasure found ? How was it found ? What did the 
man do when he had found it ? How is true religion 
like this treasure ? What should we do to obtain it ? 
What is the effect of finding it ? 

To what is the kingdom likened in v. 45 ? What is meant 
by merchant -man ? What was he seeking? And why? 

What did he do to obtain the one pearl ? v. 46. Why 
did he do this ? What should this teach us ? How does 
this parable agree with the last? How does it differ 
from it? 

What else is the kingdom said to be like ? v. 47. What 
kind of a net is spoken of? 

When it was full what was done? v. 48. What is im- 
plied by their sitting down? Who are meant by the 
good? Who bv the bad? What was done with each 
kind? 

What is said in vs. 49 and 50 ? What do these two verses 
teach ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. The Christian life may have a small beginning. 

2. Good influences work revolutions. 

3. Prefer the Christian life to everything else. 

4. Some find Christ unexpectedly ; others after long and 

anxious search. 

5. There will be a final separation of the wicked from 

the righteous. 





FIVE 


PARABLES. 


ILLUSTRATION. 




MEANING. 


1. Mustard Seed, 


m 


External Growth, 


2, Leaven. 




Secret Power, 


3. Hid Treasure, 




The Kingdom Unexpectedly Found, 


4. Pear!. 




The Kingdom Sought. 


5. Drag Net, 




The Gospel Net. 


THE RIGHTEOUS SEPARATED FROM THE WICKED AT LAST. 



9« PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK. 

LESSOR 36. [A. D. 28. 

THE CARPENTER'S SON.— Matt. 13 : 51-58. 

MEMORY TEXT— And when he was come unto his 
own country, he taught them in their synagogue, inso- 
much that they were astonished, and said, "Whence hath 
this man this wisdom, and these mighty works?— Matt. 
13 : 54. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Scribe Ezra 7 : 6-10. 

T. Treasure Deut. 33 : 13-17. 

W. Wonder Acts 3 : 1-12. 

Th. Of no Reputation Phil. 2 : 1-8. 

F. Offended in Him Mark 6 : 1-6. 

Sat. A Prophet Luke 4 : 22-31. 

S. Unbelief Acts 13 : 18-41. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The "Wise Scribe. 

2. Jesus Teaching. 

3. Offended in Him. 

© ©- 

Time.— A. D. 28. 

Place. — Nazareth and Galilee. 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, his countrymen. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Our Lord first asked the disciples if they 
understood his parables, and then he spake of those who are well 
instructed in divine things. After this he went to Nazareth and taught 
in the synagogue. His neighbors were filled with wonder at the wisdom 
and power of one whom they knew in his youth. Then they thought of 
his family and kindred and how they were plain, common people. Thus 
wonder turned to anger. Jesus said that their conduct was not surpris- 
ing for prophets usually had little honor among their own people. So 
their unbelief kept him from doing many mighty works there. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 52. instructed — literally " discipled," taught as a dis- 
ciple, Revised Version, "made a disciple to the kingdom of 
heaven : " householder — master, or head of a family ; new and 
old — implying an abundance laid up and brought out as needed. 
v. 53. departed thence — probably from near Capernaum, v. 
54. into his own country — the region of Nazareth; synagogue 
— Jewish place of worship; mighty works — miracles or pow- 
ers, v. 55. carpenter's son — son of Joseph as they supposed; 
Jesus himself is called the carpenter, Mark 6 : 3, and Jewish 
boys were usually taught the trade of their fathers; his 
brethren — the names of four of them are given, v. 56. sisters 
— names not given; tradition says there were two of them, 



THE CARPENTER'S SON. 99 

Esther and Thamar. v. 58. did not many mighty works — was 
willing, but hindered ; their unbelief — either through unbelief 
they Avould not apply to him, or, their unbelief kept him from 
doing them, for faith was required. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the subject of the last lesson? 
How many parables were studied in it ? To what kingdom 
do they all relate ? What did the parable of the drag net 
teach ? 

ON THE LESSOR. 

1. The Wise Scribe. — What did Jesus say to the disciples? 

v. 51. What did he mean by these things ? What was 
their answer? 
What did he then say to them ? v. 52. What duty is 
here enjoined ? What was a scribe ? What is meant by 
scribe? Meaning of instructed unto the kingdom of 
heaven ? How is he like a householder ? What is the 
meaning of "householder"? Of "treasure"? Of 
" things new and old " ? 

2. Jesus Teaching. — From what place did Jesus go? v. 53. 

Into what country did he come? (Nazareth.) Why 
was it called his own country? 
Where did he teach? v. 54. What was a synagogue? 
What effect had his teaching? What did they say? 
Why did they wonder ? 

3. Offended in Him.— What did they say of Jesus? v. 55. 

What is Jesus himself called in Mark 6:3? 
What is said of his brethren and sisters ? v. 56. What 

names are given ? What is implied in the question as 

repeated? What is the meaning of " offended " ? 
What did Jesus reply ? v. 57. 
What is said about Christ's works ? v. 58. Why did he 

not work many miracles there? How could unbelief 

prevent his working ? 

PKACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. They who teach others need first to be taught them- 

selves. 

2. "We should be like Christ : teaching everywhere. 

3. Pride spurns and rejects the Saviour. 

4. Unbelief prevents many mighty spiritual works. 



100 people's lesson book. 

LESSON 37. [A. D. 29. 

JOHN BEHEADED.— Matt. 14 : 1-12. 

MEMORY VERSE.— And his disciples came, and took 
up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.— Matt. 
14 : 12. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Herod and Jesus. 

2. Herod and Her- 

odias. 

3. Herod Slays 

John. 



Home Readings. 

M. John the Baptist Matt. 14 : 1-12. 

T. John Preaching Luke 3 : 1-18. 

W. John in Prison Matt. 11 : 2-15. 

Th. A Rash Promise Esther 3 : 8-15. 

F. Another Herodias 1 K'gs 21 : 4-16. 

Sat. John's Testimony John 3 : 25-36. 

S. Loving Disciples John 19 : 38-42. 



-©- 



Topic— Herod slays John the Baptist. 

Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place.— Galilee and Persea. 

Persons.— Herod, Jesus, John Baptist, Herodias, John's disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Everybody was talking about the wonder- 
ful works of Jesus. At length Herod, the ruler of Galilee, heard of them ; and 
he said, This wonder-worker is John whom I beheaded ; he is risen from the 
dead. A guilty conscience made him afraid. Herod had put away his 
own wife, and had taken Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. John 
told him that this was wrong. Herodias was angry at John for saying 
this, and would have killed him, but she could not. Herod would have 
killed him for the sake of Herodias, but he was afraid of what the people 
might do. So Herod had him put in prison. About a year and a half 
after this Herod made a great supper on his birthday, and when the 
daughter of Herodias came in and danced for them, he was so much 
pleased that he promised to give her anything she would ask. Her 
mother prompted her to ask for the head of John the Baptist. It was a 
cruel and wicked deed; but Herod thought that he must keep his 
promise ; so he sent and beheaded John in the prison. And the head 
was given to the girl, and she gave it to her mother. John's disciples 
buried the body and then told Jesus. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. Herod — Herod Antipas; tetrarch — literally, the 
ruler of a fourth part. He was also styled king, v. 9. Galilee 
and Persea comprised his kingdom, v. 3. put ... in prison — 
Josephus says it was in the fortress of Machserus, east of the Dead 
Sea. v. 4. not lawful ... to have her — for Herod's wife and 
Herodias • husband were both living ; and besides she was his 



JOHN BEHEADED. 101 

brother's wife. v. 5. he feared the multitude — for they re- 
garded John as a prophet, v. 6. daughter of Herodias — Salome, 
daughter of Herodias and Philip ; danced w 

— probably with the customary indecent c <&^^^^^* 

exposure of her person, for the amuse- ^SSrSS^*^ 

ment of the company, v. 7. whatso- ^^^^^3^^^^^^ 
ever she would ask— Mark 6 : 23 says S: 
to the half of my kingdom, v. 8. before ^^^S^^^fcl 
instructed of her mother — or being put Ip ISolll 

forward of her mother ; not that the girl ^^^S^^^O^fe 
had been told beforehand what to ask, ^ ^S P^K 
see Revised Version; charger — platter, ^_ jpfjp 

large dish. v. 11. she brought it to her 

mother — that she might know that her enemy was dead. v. 12. 
took up the body — it seems to have been thrown out unburied; 
but they took care of it; told Jesus — to warn him of danger, 
and to receive his sympathy. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — State the title of the last lesson. Where 
did Jesus preach? How was his preaching received in 
Nazareth? What did his neighbors say of him? What 
effect had their unbelief on his work ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. HePOd and Jesus.— What had Herod heard about Jesus? 

v. 1. Which Herod was this? What is he called? 
What is the meaning of tetrarch ? 
What did he say of Jesus? v. 2. Who was John the 
Baptist ? Why did Herod think Jesus was John ? 

2. Herod and Herodias. — What had Herod done to John? 

v. 3. What prison was this ? Why had he done this ? 
Who was Herodias? 

What had John said to Herod ? v. 4. Why was their 
marriage unlawful? What was Herodias' feeling to- 
wards John? Mark 6 : 19. 

What would Herod have done to him? v. 5. Who 
urged him to it? Why did he not do it? What did the 
people think of John? What did Herod do on his 
birthday? Mark 6 : 21. 

What did the daughter of Herodias do ? v. 6. Why did 
she do this ? 



102 



people's lesson book. 



What did Herod say to her ? v. 7. What sort of an oath 

was this? 
What did she ask ? v. 8. What was a " charger " ? Who 

put the daughter forward to ask this ? 
Why was Herod sorry? v. 9. Why did he not refuse the 

request ? What ought he to have done? 
3. Herod Slays John— What did Herod order ? v. 10. How 

does this make him John's murderer ? 
What was done with the head ? v. 11. Why given to the 

mother? 
What was done with the body? v. 12. Whose disciples 

were these ? What did they then do ? And why ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. See how a guilty conscience troubles men. 

2. One sin leads to others : anger ending in murder. 

3. Oaths or promises that bind us to sin ought not to be 

kept. 

4. We ought to shun the beginnings of evil. 

5. In all our trouble we may go and tell Jesus. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. State what Josephus says of Herod and the castle of Machaerus. 
3. Describe the country around the north end of the Dead Sea, where 
Machaerus stood. 
3. State some of the sins which lead to murder. 



LESSON 38. [A, D. 29. 

FEEDING THE FIVE THOUSAND.— Matt. 14 : 13-21. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Hungry Mul- 

titude. 

2. The Multitude 

Fed. 



Home Headings. 

M. Bread for the Body.... Matt. 14 : 13-21. 

T. Bread from Heaven...Ex. 16 : 11-26. 

W. Elijah Fed 1 Kings 17 : 1-16. 

Th. Sons of Prophets Fed.2 Kings 4 : 38-44. 

F. Bread of Life John 6 : 47-58. 

Sat. Bountiful Supply Isa. 55 : 1-13. 

S. Hunger No More Rev. 7 : 13-17. 



FEEDING THE FIVE THOUSAND. 103 

MEMORY TEXT —And he commanded the multitude 
to sit down on the grass, and took the rive loaves, and the 
two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and 
brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disci- 
ples to the multitude. And they did all eat, and were 
filled ; and they took up of the fragments that remained 
twelve baskets full— Matt. 14 : 19, 20. 

Time— A. D. 29. 

Place.— Xear the sea of Galilee. 

Persons. — Jesus, the disciples, multitudes. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — So many people came to Jesus and his 
disciples that he had no time to rest, or e'ven to eat. So they went into a 
boat and crossed over to a quiet place on the other side of the sea. But 
a great many people who knew where they had gone, went there also. 
These people brought little food with them, and toward evening the dis- 
ciples asked Jesus to send them away that they might buy something to 
eat. Jesus said no; but do you feed them. They answered, We have 
only five loaves of bread and two hshes, and how can we do that ? He 
said, Bring them to me. And then he told the people to sit down on the 
grass, and he took the loaves and blessed them, and broke them, and 
gave them to the disciples, and they gave them to the people. And they 
all had enough to eat. And after they had eaten enough there were 
twelve baskets full of broken pieces left. So Jesus fed about five thou- 
sand men, besides women and children with the live loaves and the two 
fishes. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 13. heard of it— of John's death; departed thence— 
went over the sea of Galilee (John 6 : 1), partly to avoid plots 
against him, and partly (Mark 6 : 31), for the sake of rest ; desert 
—not a barren place*, but one not cultivated; on foot — they 
followed by going around on the shore of 
the sea. v. 15. evening— near the close of 
the day; send . . . away— a great crowd of 
people— nothing to eat— tell them to go 
where they can buy. Ym 16. They need not 
—the disciples did not know how else the 
people could be fed, but Jesus did; and so 
he says, " give ye them to eat." The answer, 
- v. 17, '• we have here but five loaves — thin 
flat cakes, and two fishes, v. 19. sit down 
—on the ground, covered with grass, and 
by hundreds and by fifties in a company, Mark 6 : 40 ; he blessed 




104 people's lesson book. 

— asked a blessing upon the food. v. 20. fragments — broken 
pieces ; twelve baskets — more than they had in the beginning. 
v. 21. five thousand — sitting down in companies by hundreds 
they could easily know the number. 

QUESTIONS. 

FOP Review. — Who was slain by Herod? How? By 
whose request ? Who prompted her to ask it ? What was 
done with the body ? To whom did John's disciples tell their 
loss? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Hungry Multitude.— What had Jesus heard? v. 13. 

Where did he go? And how? Why did he go there? 

Why did they need rest? Where did the people go? 

How could they get to the place ? 
When at the place what did Jesus see ? v. 14. How did 

he feel towards them ? What did he do for them ? 
Who came to him at evening? v. 15. What did they 

say ? What would they have Jesus do ? What were 

their reasons for this ? 
What did Jesus answer? v. 16. What did he mean by 

this? How did they answer him? 
What supply of food had they ? v. 17. What kind of 

loaves were these ? 

2. The Multitude Fed.— What did Jesus direct the people to 

do ? v. 19. What did he then do ? What is meant by 

the words "he blessed"? How were the loaves and 

fishes distributed? 
How many ate of them ? v. 21. What is said of the supply of 

food ? How could that quantity of food supply so many ? 
How much was left over ? v. 20. Why were the fragments 

gathered up? 
How many people had eaten of the loaves? v. 21. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Our souls need rest ; we find it with Jesus. 

2. Christ still looks with pity upon lost sinners. 

3. He alone can supply spiritual wants ; he is the bread 

of life. 

4. By his power he fed the multitude ; and yet he would 

have nothing lost. 

5. By his providence he now gives us daily bread. 



WAT.TCrXtt ON THE WATER. 105 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write a description of this feeding of the five thousand. 

2. Give other instances of miraculous feeding of the hungry "which are 
mentioned in the Bible. 

3. Describe the sea of Galilee, and the boats used on it in the time of 
Christ. 



LESSON 39. [A. D. 29. 

WALKING ON THE WATER.— Matt. 14 : 22-36. 

MEMORY VERSE— Jesus stretched forth his hand, 
and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, 
wherefore didst thou doubt ?— Matt. 1-4 : 31. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Sea-storm at 

Night. 

2. Little Faith. 

3. Healing Power. 



Home Readings. 

M, The Storm Matt. 14: 22-26. 

T. The Tempest Stilled Mark 6 : 45-54. 

W. Christ with his People... Isa. 43 : 1-7. 
Th. u Never Leaves Theru.Heb. 13 : 5-8. 

F. " Hears Their Cry Luke 18 : 1-8. 

Sat. " Sustains in Distress.Ps. 27 : 1-14. 
S. His Saving Power Heb. 7 : 22-28. 



Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place.— Sea of Galilee. 

Persons. — Jesus, Peter, disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — After the people had eaten, Jesus bid his 
disciples cross the sea in a boat. He sent the people away, and then went 
into a mountain alone to pray. Meantime a storm arose on the sea and 
the disciples were toiling in rowing the boat, and were in great peril from 
the wind and the waves. Towards morning Jesus went to them walking 
on the water. At first they did not know him. They thought it was an 
evil spirit ; and they cried out for fear. But Jesus said, It is I, and then 
they knew him. Peter tried to walk on the water, but his faith failed ; and 
as lie was sinking he cried out, Lord save me. Jesus caught him, and when 
they came into the boat the wind ceased. Then the disciples worshipped 
Jesus as the Son of God. When they came to the shore, all the sick in 
the country were brought to Jesus, and he healed them. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS, 

Verse 22. straightway — after feeding the five thousand; con- 
strained — compelled ; they were not willing to go without him, 




106 PEOPLE^ LESSON BOOK. 

John 6 : 15, says this was done because the people wanted to 
take Jesus by force and make him king. v. 23. to pray — 
Jesus spent the night in prayer : he often 
prayed, v. 24. tossed with waves — a 
storm had risen; John 6 : 18, says, the 
sea arose by reason of a great wind that 
blew ; Mark 6 : 48, tells of their hard 
labor, toiling in rowing. They were in 
trouble — a small boat, dark night, stormy 
sea. v. 25. in the fourth watch — be- 
tween three and six o'clock in the morn- 
ing ; walking on the sea — a proof of divine 
power; see Job 9:8. v. 26. a spirit- 
literally a spectre, v. 27. it is I— I am, i. e. Chrlst ^™ g on the 
Jesus, and more than that, as in Ex. 3 : 

14; the name by which God makes himself known. They 
knew his voice and their fear was gone. v. 29. he walked — as 
long as he looked to Jesus, v. 30. wind boisterous — strong, high 
wind. It was so all the time, but now looking at the danger, 
and not to the Saviour, he begins to sink. v. 31. Jesus . . . 
caught him, and said — he first saved, and then reproved him. 
v. 34. land of Gennesaret — this was a narrow plain extending 
along the northwest shore of the sea of Galilee, three or four 
miles in length, and a mile or more in width, v. 36. besought 
— asked; only touch the hem — the border of his clothing ; this 
shows how strong their faith was. The result : as many as 
touched — every sort of disease was perfectly cured. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What miracle was described in the last les- 
son? Where were the people? How many were fed ? With 
how many loaves? How many baskets of fragments were 
left? 

OJST THE LESSON. 

I. Sea-storm at Night. — What order did Jesus give? v. 22. 

What is the meaning of " constrained " ? Why were 

they not willing to go ? Which was " the other side " ? 

Towards what place were they to go? What were the 

people about to do ? 
Where did Jesus go after the disciples had gone away? v. 

23. And for what ? What does his example teach us ? 
Where was the boat? v. 24 What happened to it? 

What is said of the disciples ? 



WALKING ON THE -WATER. 107 

When did Jesus come to them ? v. 25. What time was 
this ? How did he come ? 

How did the disciples feel when they saw him ? v. 26. 
What did they think he was ? What did they do ? 

What did Jesus say to them 9 v. 27. What is the mean- 
ing of " be of good cheer " ? Why should they not be 
afraid ? What is implied in the words " it is I " ? 

2. Little Faith.— Who first spoke to him? v. 28. What 

did Peter say ? Why did he say it ? 
What did Jesus sav to him ? y. 29. What did Peter then 

do? 
What made him afraid? v. 30. What happened then? 

What did he cry ? How did Jesus save him ? 
What did he say to Peter? v. 31. How had he shown 

" little faith " ? What is the meaning of the question, 

" wherefore didst thou doubt ?" 
What happened when they came into the ship ? v. 32. 
What did the disciples then do ? v. 33. What did they 

call Jesus ? What proof had they of this ? 

3. Healing Power. — To what land did they come? v. 34. 

Where was it situated ? 
What did the people of that place bring to Jesus ? v. 35. 

What did this show ? 
What favor did they ask ? v. 36. What was the effect of 

their touch ? What kind of faith does this prove that 

the people had ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Obeying Christ's commands may lead us into perils. 

2. The disciple cannot perish while Christ prays for 

him. 

3. If Christ be with us we need not fear. 

4. He still says to the troubled soul, it is I. 

5. "We walk by faith not by sight. 

6. Our blessings are according to our faith. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. State some other miracles in connection with the Jordan, mentioned 
in the Bible. 

2. Describe some other instance of persons saved in a storm, mentioned 
in the Ne\r Testament. 



108 people's lesson book. 

LESSON 40. [A. D. 29. 

JESUS AND JEWISH TRADITION.— Matt. 15 : 1-20. 

MEMORY TEXT— But in vain they do worship me, 
teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.— 
Matt. 15 : 9. 

© — o o 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Human Tradi- 

tion. 

2. The Parable. 

3. The Explana- 

tion. 



Home Readings. 

M. Human Tradition Matt. 15 : 1-20. 

T. God's Commandments.Ex. 20 : 2-17. 

W. Vain Worship Isa. 1 : 10-15. 

Th. True Worship John 4 : 20-26. 

F. Blind Guides Matt. 23 : 16-33. 

Sat. Outward Appearance..Luke 1 1 : 37-44. 
S. Defiled Heart Eom. 1 : 28-32. 



© 

Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place.— Galilee. 

Persons. — Jesus, scribes, Pharisees, disciples, multitude. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— The Pharisees who came from Jerusalem 
found fault with the disciples because they did not ceremonially wash 
their hands. It was not to clean them when dirty or soiled, but to 
wash them as a religious act. Jesus says this is not wrong, but that the 
scribes sin when, by doing what men have told them to do, they break 
God's law. He refers to a case in which this is done. Then he tells them 
that their piety was nothing but pretence, and their worship of God, 
therefore, was vain, just as the prophet Isaiah had said. And then he 
said to the people that it is not unwashed hands, but an evil heart, that 
makes a man impure. He calls the scribes false teachers ; and says that 
both they, and those who are deceived by them, will perish together. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. Scribes, Pharisees, Jerusalem — See Diet. They 
were enemies of Jesus who came to watch him. v. 2. trans- 
gress — break ; tradition — a rule or custom not to be found in 
the written law ; of the elders — literally of the ancients, the heads 
or rulers of the people. The Jews held that God gave to Moses 
an unwritten law — which Moses told to Joshua — and lie to his 
successor, and so on down to their time. For the tradition 
spoken of here see Mark 7 : 3-5. v. 4. God commanded — Ex. 
20 : 12. v. 5. It is a gift — he makes an offering of some prop- 
erty to God because he is not willing to support his parents. 
v. 6. And honour not— see Mark 7 : 12. v. 7. hypocrites— those 



JESUS AND JEWISH TRADITION. 109 

who pretend to be pious but are not; Esaias — Isaiah, see Isa. 
29 : 13. v. 11. goeth into the mouth — what one eats; cometh 
out — what he speaks, or how he acts — as showing what the heart 
is. v. 12. offended — stumbled, here means were angry, v. 14. 
blind leaders of the blind — lacking spiritual sight; both . . . fall 
— as blind men do, a proverbial expression — error will end in 
ruin. v. 15. Declare — explain, v. 16. without understanding 
— an implied reproof, do ye not understand this ? You ought 
to understand it. v. 17. understand — perceive, see ; that food 
does not effect the soul. v. IS. come forth from the heart — the 
state of the heart determines character. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What miracle is mentioned in the last lesson ? 
On what lake did it occur? Who wanted to walk on the 
water ? How did he succeed ? Why did he fail ? How was 
he reproved? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. Human Tradition. — What enemies came to Jesus? v. 1. 

For what purpose? What was the work of the Jewish 

scribes? What of the Pharisees? 
Of what did they complain? v. 2. What is meant by 

" tradition of the elders ?" How did the Jews regard it ? 
How did Jesus answer them? v. 3. How did he show 

that their tradition was itself unlawful? 
What example is given in proof of this? v. 4. What is 

meant by "honor?" Which commandment is this? 

What is said of him who curseth father or mother? 

Where is this found? Deut. 5 : 16. Meaning of these 

words ? 
How had they by their tradition broken these commands? 

v. 5. What is meant by " it is a gift ?" For what reason is 

this done? What is meant by "honor not?" What is 

meant by " he shall be free?" 
How does this make the command of none effect ? v. 6. 

What did Jesus call them ? 
Whose prophecy is quoted in proof of this? v. 7. 
What was the prophecy? v. 8. How was their worship 

hypocritical? Why vain? 
What did they teach ? v. 9. 

2. The Parable." — Why did he call the people to him ? v. 10. 



110 people's lesson book. 

What did he tell them ? v. 11. How was this a reply to 

the charge made by the Pharisees ? 
What did his disciples then say? v. 12. Why were the 

Pharisees angry ? 
What did Jesus say to them ? v. 13. What sort of plant 
is this ? How shall it be rooted up ? How did he mean 
this to apply to the Pharisees ? 

What did he further say of them ? v. 
14. What did he say they were? 
What should befall them ? 
. The Explanation. — What did Peter 
say? v. 15. What did he mean by 
the parable ? 
What did Jesus ask ? v. 16. How did 

Jesus explain it ? 
Why cannot things from without de- 
file? v. 17. 
Whence does sin proceed? v. 18. 

What comes from the heart? v. 19. Which command is 
broken by evil thoughts and murders ? Which by adul- 
teries and fornication ? Which by thefts ? Which by false 
witness ? Which by blasphemies ? What does this show 
sin to be ? 
How is the whole matter summed up ? v. 20. 

PBACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. "We must obey God rather than men. 

2. He will not accept heartless worship. 

3. Mere formalism is both worthless and sinful. 

4. Our prayer should be, Incline our hearts to keep thy 

law. 

TOPIC FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 
1. Write an account of the giving of the law from Sinai. 




LESSON 41. [A. D. 29. 

THE WOMAN OF GREAT FAITH.— Matt. 15 : 21-28. 

MEMORY TEXT— Then Jesus answered and said unto 
her, O woman, great is thy faith : be it unto thee even as 
thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that 
very hour.— Matt. 15 : 28. 






THE WOMAN OF GREAT FAITH. Ill 



LESSON OUTLINE. 



Home Readings. 
M. Vexed with a Devil.... Matt. 15 : 21-28. 



1 Tlio'RonnPttt T. Importunitv Luke 11 : 5-13. 

1. me request. w Lost Sheep. Acts 13 : 44-49. 

9 TToifh rp^Q+^rl T;l - Perseverance Luke 18 : 1-8. 

z. a aitn lestea. R No Denial Gen s2 . 24 _ 29> 

3. Faith Prevails, i g Great Faith .Matt, j? : 5-14. 

; S. Faith Prevails Luke \ : 3b-o0. 



Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place. — Border of Tyre and Sidon. 

Persons. — Jesus, woman of Canaan, disciples, people. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus again sought rest. Xear Tyre and 
Sidon was a woman of Canaan whose daughter had a demon, and she cried 
unto him to heal her child. The disciples asked him to grant her 
request and let her go. Jesus then said, I am sent only to the lost sheep 
of Israel. Still she said more earnestly than before, Lord, help me. 
Then Jesus answered, It is not right to give the children's bread to dogs. 
This Jesus did, to try her faith. Still she turned what would seem to be 
a harsh reply into an argument in her favor ; and she said, Truth, Lord; 
yet the dogs eat of the children's crumbs. Jesus then said, O woman, 
great is thy faith ; be it unto thee even as thou wilt. Then she went 
home, and found that her daughter was cured. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 21. went thence — probably from near Capernaum; 
the coasts — the borders of the country of which Tyre and 
Sidon were the chief cities, v. 22. a woman of Canaan — a 
Syrian by residence, a Greek by language, Mark 7 : 26, a Syro- 
phcenecian by nation, so called because Phenice where she lived 
was part of the Roman province of Syria, v. 23. Send her 
away — that is, grant her request, and let her go away. v. 24. 
answered — to the disciples, but in her hearing, v. 26. chil- 
dren's bread ... to dogs — a proverbial expression, mean- 
ing that in gospel blessings the Gentiles were regarded as 
dogs in comparison with the Jews. v. 27. dogs eat — dogs do 
not eat the children's bread; only the crumbs. So her request 
takes nothing from the children. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review.— What is the title of the last lesson ? What 
question did the Pharisees ask? How did Jesus reply? 
What truth did Jesus teach in regard to human tradition ? 



112 people's lesson book. 

ON" THE LESSON. 

1. The Request.— To what region did Jesus depart? v. 21. 

What is meant by coasts of " Tyre and Sidon" ? Where 
were those cities, and what can you say of them ? Why 
did Jesus go there ? 
Who came to him? v. 22. What is she called in Mark 
7 : 26 ? How are these names explained ? What did 
she cry? What is implied in the name she gave him? 
What did she ask of him? 

2. Faith Tested.— How did he treat her prayer? v. 23. 

What did the disciples ask? What is implied in this? 
What did he answer them ? v. 24. Who were the lost 

sheep? What did this answer imply? Why imply a 

refusal to grant the woman's request ? 
What did she then ask? v. 25. What is meant by " wor- 
shipped " ? By " help me " ? 
How did Jesus answer this appeal ? v. 26. What is meant 

by "meet"? Who are meant by "children"? By 

" dogs " ? What by " children's bread " ? 
What did she say to this? v. 27. How does she turn it 

in her favor? 

3. Faith Prevails.— What did Jesus then say to her? v. 28. 

How had she shown her faith ? How that her faith was 
great? What was his design in refusing her request 
until now? What then did he say? Why was her 
prayer granted? What was the result? When did the 
cure take place ? 

PRACTICAL. TEACHINGS. 

"What does this lesson teach us : 

1. As to the answering of prayer ? 

2. As to perseverance in prayer ? 

3. As to the trial of faith ? 

4. As to the effects of faith ? 

5. "What encouragement is there in this lesson for us ? 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Describe the region of Tyre and Sidon. 

2. Give other Bible instances of faith and perseverance bringing bless- 
ings. 



FEEDIXG THE FOUH THOUSAND. 113 

lesson 42. [a.d. 29. 

FEEDING THE FOUR THOUSAND.— Matt. 15 : 29-39. 

MEMORY TEXT.— Then Jesus called his disciples 
unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, 
because they continue with me now three days, and have 
nothing to eat : and I will not send them away fasting, 
lest they faint in the way.— Matt. 15 : 32. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Jesus the Healer. 

2. The People Fed. 



Home Headings. 

M. The Healer Isa. 35 : 4-10. 

T. Compassionate Savfr...Heb. 5 : 1-10. 

IF. Bread in the Desert..... Ex. 16 : 12-18. 

Th. Giving: Thanks Luke 22 : 14-20. 

F. Food Increased 1 K'gs 17 : 8-16. 

Sat. Bread of Life John 6 : 31-35. 

S. Enough for All Matt. 15 : 29-39. 



Time— A. D. 29. 

Place. — Region of Decapolis. 

Persons. — Jesus, the lame, dumb, blind, the multitude, the disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus returned from the borders of Tyre 
and Sidon, to the sea of Galilee. Crowds of people again came to him, 
bringing with them many who were sick, and lame, and blind, and he 
healed them all; and the people wondered and gave praise to God. 
When they had been with him three days, they were without food; and 
Jesus would not send them away hungry. So Jesus told all the people to 
sit down on the ground. He took seven loaves and a few fishes, gave 
thanks, and gave to the disciples, and they to the people ; and there was 
enough food for more than four thousand" to eat, and seven baskets fulj. 
of fragments left over. Then he sent the people away. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Terse 29. departed from thence — from the region of Tyre and 
Sidon; Mark 7 : 31 says he came through the borders of Deca- 
polis, or the ten cities, v. 30. maimed — crooked, deformed; 
many others — meaning many sick with other diseases; cast 
them down — laid them down with haste, not with violence, see 
Mark 2 : 3-5; he healed them — Mark 7 : 32-35, describes one 
remarkable case, but does not mention the others, v. 32. com- 
passion — pity. v. 33. Whence — from what place, not how; 
wilderness — not arid, but uncultivated, and uninhabited place. 



114 people's lesson book. 

v. 35. on the ground — net the grass as before ; it was later in 
the dry season ; the grass was burned out by the sun. v. 37. 
seven baskets — not so many, but they were larger than the 
ones used before. The Greek word for basket is different from 
that used in Matt. 14 : 20. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What healing was mentioned in the last les- 
son? Where was it done? For whom? What objections 
were made to it? By whom? What did Jesus say of the 
woman's faith ? 

03NT THE LESSON. 

I. Jesus the Healer. — Where was Jesus in the last lesson? 
To what region did he next go ? v. 29. How does Mark 
describe his route ? On which side of the sea did he 
stop? 
Who came to him? v. 30. Whom did they bring with 
them ? What is implied by " cast 
them clown at Jesus' feet " ? What 
did Jesus do for them ? What case 
does Mark speak of, that Matthew 
omits ? 
What effect had these miracles upon 
the people? v. 31. How do they 
prove Jesus to be the Messiah? 
Matt. 11 . 2-6. 
2. The People Fed. — Whom did Jesus 
call to him ? v. 32. Why did he pity the people ? 
How long had they been with him ? What was he not 
willing to do ? Why did he fear they would faint by the 
way? 
What did the disciples answer ? v. 33. How did the dis- 
ciples speak of the place? 
How much food had they ? v. 34. 
What did Jesus tell the people to do ? v. 35. 
What did Jesus do with the loaves and fishes ? v. 36. 
How much was left over? v. 37. How many were fed? 
When he fed the five thousand how much food had they ? 
How much was then left ? 
Who sent the multitude away ? v. 39. Where did Jesus 
go after that ? In what ? Where was Magdala ? 




FALSE DOCTRINE OF THE PHARISEES. 115 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. We all need spiritual healing ; Christ is the great 

physician. 

2. These miracles furnish a proof to us that Jesus is a 

divine Saviour. 

3. Christ's compassion fed the hungry— the same com- 

passion would now feed our souls. 

4. Jesus is the bread of life. 



LESS03ST 43. [A. D. 29. 

FALSE DOCTRINE OF THE PHARISEES.— Matt. 16 : 1-12. 

MEMORY TEXT— Then understood they how that he 
bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the 
doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.— Matt. 
16 : 12. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Skeptics Re- 

proved. 

2. Disciples Warn- 

ed. 



•- 



Home Readings. 

M. False Doctrine Matt. 16 : 1-12. 

T. Face of the Sky Luke 12 : 54-57. 

W. Signs of the Times Matt. 24 : 15-25. 

Th. Jonah a Sign Jonah 1 : 11-17. 

F. Leaven of the Pharis's.Luke 12 : 1-5. 

Sat. " " Sadduc's...Acts 23 : 6-10. 

S. Gospel Doctrine Bom. 10 : 6-13. 



Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place.— Galilee. 

Persons. — Jesus, scribes Pharisees, disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— The Pharisees and Sadducees thought 
that they could deceive Jesus by asking for a sign. Appearing to be 
friendly, they hated him, and sought to hinder his work. Jesus knew 
this. Hence he tells them abundant proof that he was the Messiah had 
already been given; and that he would give them no sign, only the sign 
of theprophet Jonah. He then left them. Presently the disciples found 
out that they had taken no bread with them ; and when they spoke of 
it, Jesus takes the opportunity to warn them to be on their guard against 
the leaven or false teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. 



116 people's lesson book. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. tempting — trying him ; sign from heaven—literally, 
out of heaven ; meaning some proof from the clouds, which 
would be stronger to their minds than other miracles, v. 3. 
Christ's answer implies that their lack of faith was not from 
want of proof, but because they were not willing to believe. 
v. 4. adulterous — unfaithful to God's covenant with them; 
prophet Jonas — Jonah, v. 5. other side — to the east side 
of the sea of Galilee, v. 6. leaven — common yeast; here 
it means false teaching, v. 8. why reason, etc. — what if 
you have no bread ? He who fed the multitudes can also feed 
you. v. 9. Do ye not yet understand — if you had remembered 
those miracles, you would have more faith, v. 11. How is it — 
he wishes them to see how unthinking they are. v. 12. doc- 
trine — the teaching of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees, 
which was false and dangerous. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What is the title of the last lesson? Where 
were they fed ? With how many loaves ? Who fed them in 
this way ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. Skeptics Reproved. — For what did the Pharisees come to 

Jesus? v. 1. Who were the Pharisees and the Sad- 
ducees? What is meant by "tempting him"? What 
was the real reason of their unbelief? 

What answer did he give them ? v. 2. 

How did they tell what the weather would be ? v. 3. 
What did he call them? How was this true? What 
could they not do? Meaning of "signs of the times" ? 

What does he further say of them ? v. 4. What does he 
mean by the word "adulterous"? [Sinful, wicked.] 
What sign did he give them? How was Jonah a sign? 
What did he then do? 

2. Disciples Warned. — Where did they go? v. 5. How? 

Mark 8 : 14. What had the disciples forgotten? Why 

should this disturb them ? 
What warning did Jesus give the disciples? v. 6. What 

is leaven ? 
How did the disciples misunderstand this ? v. 7. Why did 

they think he said it ? 



CONFESSING CHBIST AND CROSS -BEARING. 117 

"What did Jesus say to correct their mistake ? v. 8. How 

did they show their little faith ? 
Of what miracles did he remind them? vs. 9, 10. How 

had the multitudes been fed ? Why should they have 

remembered these miracles ? 
"What did he say to them about his meaning? v. 11. 

What did he mean by the " leaven n ? Why should they 

be on their guard against it ? 
What did they now understand? y. 12. What can you 

tell of the doctrines of the Pharisees? And of the 

Sadducees ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Skeptics often ask captious questions. 

2. Infidelity shows not merely a weak head but a bad 

heart. 

3. Jesus was approved as the Son of God by infallible 

proofs. 

4. Bad company and bad teaching go together; we 

ought to avoid both. 

5. How much we often lose by not remembering ! 

TOPSCS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some account of what the Pharisees believed and taught. 

2. Give other instances in the Bible where leaven is used to illus- 
trate moral lessons. 



LESSON 44. [A. D. 29. 

CONFESSING CHRIST AND CROSS-BEARING. 
Matt. 16 : 13-28. 

MEMOKY TEXT— Then said Jesus unto his disciples, 
If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and 
take up his cross, and follow me.— Matt. 16 : 24. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. "Who Jesus is. 

2. Sure Founda- 

tion. 

3. Cross Foretold. 



Home Readings. 

M. Confessing Christ Matt. 16 : 13-28. 

T. Peter's Confession John 21 : 7-21. 

W. The Sure Foundation. 1 Cor. 3 : 1-15. 

Th. The Cross Foretold Mark 10 : 32-40. 

F. Following Christ John 15 : 14-27. 

Sat. Gain and Loss Matt. 10 : 32-40. 

S. Coming of Son of man.2 Pet. 1 : 12-18. 



118 people's lesson book. 

Time.— A. D. 29. 

PI ace. —Region of Caesar ea Philippi. 

Persons. — Jesus, Peter, the disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Jesus asked his disciples, Whom do men 
say that I am? They said, Some say John the Baptist ; others, Elijah, or 
one of the old prophets. Then Jesus said, Whom say ye that I am? 
Peter said, Thou art the Christ. Jesus said to Peter, Blessed art thou. 
Jesus tells his disciples that in a little while he would be crucified at 
Jerusalem. Peter said, We will not have it so. But Jesus rebuked Peter, 
and said, That whoever would be his disciple must bear the cross. If the 
soul is lost, all is lost. In the day of judgment, Jesus will reward every 
man according to his works. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 13. coasts — borders ; Caesarea Philippi — see Diet. ; Son 
of man — the Greek implies a double question, Who I am ? the 
Son of man? v. 14. Elias — Elijah; Jeremias — Jeremiah, see 
Diet. v. 17. Simon Bar-jona — son of Jona, see Diet.; flesh 
and blood — that is, no man, no human teacher had revealed it, 
1 Cor. 12 : 3. v. 18. Peter — rock, see Diet. ; this rock — on this 
spiritually rock-like person, Jesus himself being the chief cor- 
ner-stone, see 1 Cor. 3 : 11 ; Isa. 28 : 16. v. 19. unto thee — the 
same power was given to the other apostles also, see Matt. 18 : 
18 ; keys — symbols of authority ; and so the power to admit to, 
or exclude from, the church, which is here called the kingdom 
of heaven, v. 22. rebuke — reprove as a friend, v. 23. Get 
thee behind me, Satan — or begone, the rebuke given the tempt- 
er, Luke 4:8, as if Satan had come again in the person of 
Peter to tempt him ; an offence — stumbling block, or hindrance ; 
savourest not — "mindest not;" you have the selfish human, 
not the Godlike, view. v. 25. shall lose it — he cannot live here 
forever, and he forfeits eternal life. And, on the other hand, in 
following Christ, if thus he lose hi3 life — the present life, he 
will find it — he will yet have eternal life. v. 26. give in ex- 
change — if the soul or " life " be thus lost, to buy it back is 
impossible, v. 28. standing here — of those present; taste of 
death — die ; coming in his kingdom — see some sure proof that 
his kingdom has been actually set up in the world. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the subject of the last lesson? 
Whose teaching were the disciples to avoid ? Why ? What 
kind of teaching are we to avoid ? 



CONFESSING CHRIST AND CROSS-BEARING. 119 

ON THE LESSON. 

Who Jesus is. — Near what town was Jesus ? v. 13. What 

question did he ask? What is meant by "Son of 

man"? 
What did the people say of him? v. 14. Why did they 

think he was a prophet ? 
What did Jesus again ask? v. 15. 
What was Peter's answer? v. 16. What did he mean by 

" the Christ " ? By " the Son of the living God " ? 
How did Jesus answer Peter? v. 17. Whose son was 

Peter ? How did Peter know about Jesus ? 

. The Sure Foundation. — What did Jesus declare to Peter? 
v. 18. Meaning of the word "Peter"? Meaning of 
" upon this rock " ? Who is the corner-stone of the 
church? 1 Cor. 3 : 1L What is meant by "gates of 
hell"? 

What did Jesus say he will give? v. 19. To whom? 
What did "the keys" signify? What is meant by 
binding and loosing? 

What charge did he then give them? v. 20. 

. Cross Foretold. — What fact did Jesus foretell? v. 21. 
What did Peter then do? v. 22. What 

did he say? 
How did Jesus rebuke Peter? v. 23. 

When had he used these words before? 

How was he "an offence " ? What is 

meant by "savourest not"? 
What did Jesus say about discipleship ? , 

v. 24. r W rv. mLe* 

Why ought this to be done at all hazards? v. 25. What 

is meant by losing life for Christ's sake? 
What further reason is given ? v. 26. What may he lose 

who gains the whole world? What does he lose who 

loses the soul? 
What assurance is given of this truth in v. 27 ? Who will 

come ? How will he come ? Who will be with him ? For 

what will he come ? 
What did Jesus finally say to his disciples ? v. 28. What 

is meant by his coming in his kingdom ? 




120 people's lesson book. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. The test question— What think ye of Christ ? 

2. Build on that sure foundation. 

3. Confession and cross-bearing are tests of disciple- 

ship. 

4. "What is the folly of choosing the world instead of 

Christ ? 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Give some reasons showing that it is our duty to confess Christ. 

2. State some of the crosses which we must bear for Christ's sake. 



LESSON 45. [A. D. 29. 

THE TRANSFIGURATION.— Matt. 17 : 1-13. 

MEMORY TEXT— And was transfigured before them : 
and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was as 
white as the light.— Matt. 17 : 2. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 


Home Readings. 




M. Death of Moses Deut. 34 : 1-8. 


1. Jesus Transfig- 


T. Translation of Elijah..2 K'gs 2 : 1-15. 


W. Voice from Heaven.... Matt. 3 : 13-17. 


ured. 


Th. Rising from the Dead.Matt. 28 : 1-10. 




F. Christ in Glory Rev. 1 : 10-18. 


2. Elijah is Come. 

e — « 


Sat. Shall be Like Him 1 Cor. 15 : 45-58. 

S. Transfiguration Matt. 17 : 1-13. 

» 9 



Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place. — Region of Csesarea Philippi. 

Persons. — Jesus, Moses, Elijah, Peter, James and John. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus with Peter and James and John 
■went up into a mountain to pray. While there the appearance of Jesus 
was changed : his face shone as the sun, and all his clothing became 
white as the light. Then the disciples saw Moses and Elijah, who talked 
with Jesus about his death at Jerusalem. Peter proposed to make three 
tabernacles, for he wanted lo stay there. Then a bright cloud came over 
them, and out of the cloud came a voice which said, This is my beloved 
Son ; hear him. When the disciples heard this they fell on their faces 
with fear; but Jesus said unto them, Be not afraid. Then they looked 
up, but Moses and Elijah had gone, and Jesus only was with them. As 
they came down from the mountain in the morning, Jesus told them 
that John the Baptist was the Elijah, that the prophet, Malachi said should 
prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah. 



THE TRANSFIGURATION. 121 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. after six days — Luke says, about an eight days ; 
Luke counts six and parts of two other days, Matthew 
mentions the six full days only; Peter, James, and John 
— as witnesses; see Mark "o : 37*and 14:33; high mountain 
— probably a spur of Mt. Hermon. v. 2. transfigured — his 
appearance was changed, v. 4. three tabernacles — tents or 
booths, v. o. bright cloud — symbol of the divine presence, 2 
Peter 1 : 17; a voice — as at the baptism of Jesus, Mark 1 : 11. 
v. 8. lifted up their eyes — looked up from the ground; the 
heavenly visitors had gone; Jesus was not in his glorious dress. 
v. 9. from the mountain — the next day ; they were there all 
night, Luke 9 : 37; Tell the vision — which they had seen; to 
no man — not even to the other disciples ; be risen — until after 
his resurrection. Luke 9 : 36 says, they kept it close, i. c, did 
not tell of it; but afterwards Peter and John both refer to it, 
2 Peter 1 : 16-18, 1 John 1 : 1-3. v. 11. shall first come— the 
scribes are right in that. v. 12. is come — not literally as the 
scribes supposed, but in the spirit and power of Elijah ; as 
taught in Luke 1:17; whatsoever they listed — whatever they 
wished to do, Matt. 14 : 3, 10. v. 13. John the Baptist is the 
Elijah of the prophecy. 

QUESTIONS. 
For Review — What is the title of the last lesson? Who 
made the great confession ? What trials were foretold ? What 
promise made ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

I. Jesus Transfigured. — Whither did Jesus take three disci- 
ples after six days ? v. 1. Why did he go there ? Which 
disciples were with him ? What mountain was it ? 

What took place there? v. 2. What is meant by "trans- 
figured"? What is meant by " raiment " ? How is his 
appearance described ? 

Who appeared with Jesus ? v. 3. Who was Moses ? Who 
was Elijah? Of what were thev talking? 

What did Peter say? v. 4. Why did he say it? What 
did he propose to make? What are tabernacles? 

What then came over them? v. 5. What was heard? 
When had this been said before? What did it mean? 

How did all this affect the disciples ? and what did they 
do? v. 6. Why were they afraid? 



122 people's lesson book. 

"What did Jesus do and say to them ? v. 7. 

When they looked up whom did they see? v. 8. 

What did Jesus command ? v. 9. What did he mean by 
" vision"? When might they tell of it? What does 
Luke say they did ? How did Peter and John afterwards 
refer to it ? 
2. Elijah is Come. — W T hat did the disciples ask him ? v. 10. 
Who were the scribes ? What reason had they for say- 
ing this ? How did they use this prophecy against Jesus ? 

What did Jesus answer? v. 11. Meaning of "restore all 
things"? 

What did he further say about this? v. 12. Whom did 
he mean by Elias ? What had they done to him ? In 
what sense was he Elias ? What did Jesus say about his 
own sufferings ? How did he suffer of them ? 

What did they then understand ? v. 13. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS. 
What does this lesson teach, us : 

1. About the future state, or life after death ? 

2. About the glory of the heavenly state? 

3. About the blessedness of it ? 

4. About recognition of persons in the future state ? 

5. About our duty to obey him ? 

6. In regard to Jesus as the Messiah, in the last part 

of the lesson ? 



LESSON 46. [A. D. 29. 

WEAK AND MISTAKEN DISCIPLES.— Matt. 17 : 14-27. 
© 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. "Want of Faith. 

2. Death Foretold. 

3. The Temple Tax. 



Home Headings. 

31. Disciples Matt. 17 : 14-27. 

T. Weak Faith James 1 : 1-8. 

W. Power of Christ Acts 4 : 5-12. 

Th. Prayer Prevails Mark 11 : 20-26. 

F. Christ's Death Acts 2 : 22-32. 

Sat. Tribute Paid Rom. 13 : 1-8. 

S. The Children Free John 8 : 31-40. 



WEAK AND MISTAKEN DISCIPLES. 123 

MEMORY TEXT— . . . For verily I say unto you, If 
ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto 
this mountain, Eemove hence to yonder place ; and it 
shall remove : and nothing shall be impossible unto you. 
Matt. 17 : 20. 

Time— A. D. 29. 

Place. — Region of Gesarea Philippi. 

Persons. — Jesus, the disciples, the epileptic child and father, the 
scribes. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — When Jesus and the three disciples came 
down from the mountain of transfiguration to the other disciples they 
found a great crowd of people. A man had brought his son to the disci- 
ples to be healed. They could not cure him. Jesus healed him and then 
told the disciples that they had failed to heal him because they lacked 
faith. Again he tells the'disciples of his death, and of his resurrection. 
Jesus sends Peter to the sea to catch a fish, in the mouth of which he 
would find a piece of money to pay the temple tax. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 14. when they were come — from the Mount of Trans- 
figuration, on the next day, Luke 9 : 37 ; disputing" with the 
disciples — the nine who had not gone with Jesus, v. 15. luna- 
tic — epileptic, Mark 9:17; a dumb spirit — he was possessed of 
an evil spirit that made him dumb. v. 17. perverse — turned 
from the right way; suffer you — bear with your want of faith. 
v. 18. rebuked — the very words are given, Mark 9 : 25. v. 19. 
Why could not we — they express surprise and humiliation, 
Matt. 10 : 8. v. 20. this mountain — either to cure cases of this 
kind, or to remove literally the mountain Hermon which was near 
them ; nothing . . . impossible — for divine power can do every 
right thing, v. 24. tribute — " half-shekel " or " didraehma " the 
tax to support the temple worship, Ex. 30 : 11-16. It was worth 
about 25 to 30 cents; Doth not — is he not willing to pay this 
tax? v. 25. prevented — spake before Peter did. He knew that 
Peter would speak of the tax ; custom — tax for land; tribute — 
tax for persons; strangers — these who are not of their own 
family ; children free — or not subj ect to tax. Jesus teaches that 
as he is the Son of God, therefore he is not subject to the temple 
tax. v. 27. lest we should offend — to avoid giving offence ; 
piece of money — or a stater, worth 50 to 60 cents — in the 
fish's mouth ; this coin would pay the tax for two persons. 

QUESTIONS. 
For Review. — What remarkable event was studied in the 
last lesson? Who went with Jesus on the Mount? Who 



124 



PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK. 



appeared to tliera? What did the three disciples see? 
What hear ? What did this prove ? 

OlST THE LESSON. 
S. Want of Faith. — To whom did Jesus and his disciples 
come? v. 14. Who were with the disciples? What 
were they doing ? Who came to Jesus ? 
What did he ask? v. 15. How did he speak of his child? 
What caused his sickness? What does Mark say of his 
case? 
What did the man say he had done? v. 16. Which of 

the disciples were these ? 
What did Jesus answer ? v. 17. To whom did this answer 
refer? What did he mean hy "faithless and perverse"? 
How did he rebuke the evil spirit? v. 18. What was the 

effect of this word? Mark 9 : 26. 
What did the disciples say to Jesus? v. 19. Why 

privately? What does this express? 
How did Jesus answer them ? v. 20. What kind of faith 
does he refer to ? What does he mean when he says " as 
a grain of mustard seed " ? What by " removing this 
mountain " ? What by saying " nothing shall be impos- 
sible " ? What is further said about this case ? \ 
Why does he speak of prayer and fasting? v. 21. 
2, Death Foretold. — In what way did he tell them of his 
crucifixion? v. 22. When had he told them this? 
What does he mean by the hands of men ? How would 
he come into their power? 
How did the disciples feel when they heard it ? v. 23. 

Did they under- 
stand his meaning? 
Mark 9 : 32. 
Temple Tax—To 
what city did they 
next come? v. 24. 
Where was Caper- 
naum ? Who came 
to Peter, and what 
did they ask? What 
was this tribute money ? For what was it paid ? 
What did Peter say? v. 25. Why did he so answer? 




Jewish Shekel. 



chhist's cake for his uttle ones. 125 

What is meant bv " prevented" ? How did Jesus know 
what had been said ? 

What did he ask Peter? v. 26. "What is meant bv "cus- 
tom,*' and " tribute"? Meaning of ''then are the chil- 
dren free n ? How does this applv to Jesus and this tax ? 
Heb. 3:6. 

What did Jesus tell Peter to do ? v. 27. And why ? How 
was he to get the money ? And how much ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. "Without faith in Christ we can do nothing. 

2. All spiritual things are possible with faith. 

3. Great duties require special preparation. 

4. All things belong to Christ and are subject to his 

command. 

5. Christ meets the law's demands for himself and for 

his people. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Tell what you can learn about the temple tax in the time of Christ. 

2. Give an account of the cases in which Jesus healed children. 



LESSON 47. [A. D. 29. 

CHRIST'S CARE FOR HIS LITTLE ONES.— Matt. 18 : 1-20. 

MEMORY TEXT— And Jesus called a little child unto 
him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I 
say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as lit- 
tle children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of 
heaven.— Matt. IS : 2, 3. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Be Humble. 

2. Avoid OfTence. 



Home Readings. 



M. Christ's Care Matt. IS : 1-20. 

T. The Humble Exalted...l Peter 5 : 1-11. 

TT. Offences Will Come 1 Cor. 11 : 17-22. 

Th. Eegard for the Weak...l Cor. 8 : 9-13. 

F. Saving the Lost Luke 15 : 1-10. 

o -Ro of Pa(,pp J . Be at Peace Pom. 12 -.10-21. 

(5. .De at reace. g Hearing p ra v er Uohno:13-21. 



126 people's lesson book. 

Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place. — Capernaum. 

Persons. — Jesus, a child, disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Taking a little child, Jesus teaches his 
disciples that humility, not unholy ambition, brings honor in his kingdom. 
The Saviour's care for his little ones is such that they who injure them 
will certainly suiter his displeasure. These little ones are also the objects 
of the Father's special care. The Saviour has shown his care for them 
in coming to seek and to save them ; and it is the Father's will that not 
one of them should perish. Then he teaches the disciples that they 
must be at peace with each other ; and that if they agree upon what to 
pray for, their prayers will be answered. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 3. be converted — changed, from such a spirit of self- 
seeking: and become as little children — who are innocent, 
simple hearted ; shall not enter — not only not be great, but 
have no place in that kingdom, v. 4. is greatest — teaches that 
true humility is true greatness, v. 6. shall offend — put a stum- 
bling block in his way, or cause to sin. v. 7. needs be — as things 
now are, they will come. v. 8. hand or . . . foot offend — that is, 
cause to stumble into sin; cut them off— if such be the case the 
dearest and most useful thing must be given up. v. 14. not the 
will — your heavenly Father is not willing that you be lost. v. 
15. tell him . . . alone — go to him alone, and tell him. alone, 
Lev. 19 : 17 ; do not talk to others about it. v. 17. tell it unto 
the church — to which both of you own subjection, and which 
has the right to exercise discipline, v. 19. Again I say — Chris- 
tians may expect divine guidance in discipline and every matter. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review — Give the title of the last lesson. What is 
said of faith ? How did Jesus illustrate its power ? How 
secure money for the temple tax ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

I. Be Humble. — What question did the disciples ask? v. 1. 

What did they mean by " kingdom of heaven " ? What 

by "the greatest"? 
How did Jesus answer them ? v. 2. 
What did he mean by, " be converted " ? v. 3. How were 

they to be as little children ? What did Jesus mean by 

" kingdom of heaven " ? What is it to be humble ? 



Christ's cake for his little ones. 127 

What does Jesus say about receiving such ? v. 4. Who is 

meant by " one such little child " ? 
How does Christ regard the treatment of these little ones? 

v. 5. 
What does he say about those who offend them? v. 6. 

What is it to offend ? 

2. Avoid Offences. — What is said about offences? y. 7. 

Why are they certain to come? What is said of him 

who leads others into sin ? 
What does he say about the hand or foot that offends ? y. 

8. What does this mean ? What is taught here about 

the evil of sin? 
What about its punishment ? y. 9. 
What further caution is given? y. 10. Why must we not 

despise them? What angels are spoken of? What 

proof here of the Father's love ? 
What further reason for not despising them ? y. 11. Yf ho 

is the " Son of man n ? What is meant by the lost ? 
What illustration of the Saviour's love for them is given? 

v. 12. Who is meant by this Shepherd? Who by the 

sheep gone astray ? How has Jesus done this ? 
What is said about finding the lost one? v. 13. Why re- 
joice more over that one than over the others? 
How does Jesus sum up his teaching? v. 14. 

3. Be at Peace. — What is the subject of this section? v. 15. 

Who is meant by " brother >} 1 What by "trespass 

against thee" ? What is to be done first ? Why go alone ? 
But if he be obstinate what is next to be done ? v. 16. Why 

should others be taken? 
Failing in this what nest? v. 17. Why tell it to the 

church ? If still obstinate, what then ? Meaning of this ? 
To whom is this power given ? v. 18. Why to them ? 
What promise is given them? v. 19. 
What makes the promise sure ? v. 20. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS. 
"What does this lesson teach : 

1. About true greatness ? 

2. About trie Saviour's care for his people ? 

3. About the right way to settle difficulties ? 

4. About church discipline P 

5. About encouragement for union in prayer P 



128 



PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK. 



, LESSON 48. [A D. 29. 

DISCIPLINE AND FORGIVENESS.— Matt. 18 : 21-35. 

MEMOBY TEXT— Then came Peter to him, and said, 
Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I for- 
give him ? till seven times ? Jesus saith unto him, I say not 
unto thee, Until seven times : but, Until seventy times 
seven. Matt.. 18 : 21, 22. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Teaching. 

2. The Parable. 

3. The Application. 



Home Headings. 

M. Christian Duty Matt. 18 : 21-35. 

T. Must give Account Luke 19 : 12-27. 

W. Eule of Duty James 2 : 8-18. 

Th. Infinite Debtors Rom. 3 : 9-20. 

F. Nothing to Pay Ps. 130 : 1-8. 

Sat. God's Compassion Rom. 3 : 21-28. 

S. Repentance Isa. 3 : 9-15. 



Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place. — Capernaum. 

Persons. — Peter, Jesus, disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Peter now came to Jesus asking what to 
do to those who have done us wrong many times. Must we forgive them 
seven times? Jesus answers, that there is no limit to the number of 
times we must forgive others. By the parable of the two debtors Jesus 
shows how God forgives us ; and how we also ought to forgive. He shows 
that if we do not forgive, we shall not be forgiven. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 22. seventy times seven — that is an indefinite and un- 
limited number of times, v. 24. ten thousand talents — an im- 
mense sum. A talent of silver was worth about one thousand 
dollars, v. 25. commanded him to be sold — into bondage ; Jew- 
ish law allowed this, Lev. 25 : 39-46 ; but it is probable that 
the details of this parable were taken from the practice of the 
Romans, v. 28. fellow servant — one like himself; a hundred 
pence — about fifteen dollars. Therefore the proportion of the 
two debts was 667,000 to 1. v. 29. fell down— just as the other 
one had done to the king, and used the very same entreaty, v. 
34. tormentors — officers who inflicted ail kinds of punish- 
ment. 



DISCIPLINE AND FORGIVENESS. 129 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the subject of the last lesson? 
How were the little ones to be treated ? What was said of 
the angels ? What parable was given to show the love of 
God? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Teaching. — Which disciple came to Jesus? v. 21. 

What did he ask? Whom did he mean by "brother"? 
What by " sin against me " ? How many times did Peter 
speak of forgiving ? 
What did Jesus answer ? v. 22. Meaning of this ? Luke 
17:3,4. 

2. The Parable. — What does he say the kingdom of heaven 

is like ? v. 23. Who are the " servants " ? Meaning of 
" " take account " ? 
How much did one of them owe? v. 24. How much was 

a talent? Why did he not pay? 
What did his lord command ? v. 25. 
W r hat did the servant do? v. 26. What did he say? 

Why did he make such a promise ? 
What is said of the lord? v. 27. What did the lord 

promise ? 
What did that servant soon do ? v. 28. How much was 

this debt ? How did he treat his fellow-servant ? 
What request did this debtor make ? v. 29. 
How did he treat this request ? v. 30. 
How did the other servants feel when they knew of this ? 

v. 31. 
How did his lord receive the news ? v. 32. What did he 

say? 
What made this man's conduct so shameful ? v. 33. Why 

had he been forgiven? What ought he therefore to 

have done ? 
W T hat did his lord order done to him ? v. 34. Who were 

" the tormentors " ? Why was this done ? 

3. The Application.— What does this parable teach? v. 35. 

What duty ? How must we forgive ? If not willing to 
forgive, what then ? 



130 people's lesson book. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Christ freely forgives ; he multiplies pardons.— Isa. 55 : 7. 

2. Our debts to God are infinite ; we have nothing to 

pay. 

3. Mercy is our only plea.— Luke 18 ■ 13. 

4. As Christ freely forgives us, we should be ready to 

forgive others. 

5. If we are unforgiving we cannot hope to be forgiven. 



LESSON 49. [A. D. 29. 

MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY.— Matt. 19 : 1-15. 

MEMORY TEXT.— But Jesus said, Suffer little chil- 
dren, and forbid them not, to come unto me ; for of such 
is the kingdom of heaven.— Matt. 19 ; 14. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Law of Marriage. 

2. "Who may Marry. 

3. Children Bless- 

ed. 



Home Readings. 

M. Marriage Instituted Gen. 2 : 18-24. 

T. Moses' Law Deut. 24 : 1-4. 

W. Paul's Teaching 1 Cor. 7 : 10-17. 

Th. Christ and the Church.Eph. 5 : 22-33. 

F. Who may Marry 1 Cor. 7 : 1-9. 

Sat. Parents and Children.Deut. 6 : 4-12. 

S. Children Blessed Matt. 19 : 1-15. 



Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place.— Borders of Judsea. 

Persons.— Jesus, the disciples, Pharisees. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Jesus left Galilee and came to the borders 
of Judaea, east of the Jordan. The Pharisees came to him, and asked 
him, If it is lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause ? In 
reply, Jesus tells them the true law of marriage, and why it was that 
Moses in old time allowed a writing of divorcement to be given, and what 
is now the only lawful ground of divorce. Further, in regard to mar- 
riage, he teaches that it is left to each one to judge whether he ought, or 
ought not, to marry. Then little children were brought to him, and he 
put his hands upon them and blessed them. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. departed from Galilee — left it finally, his work there 
was now done ; coasts — borders of Judaea, passing along through 
Persea, on the East side of the Jordan, v. 5. cleave— join 
himself to ; they twain — they two ; one flesh— forming a iam- 



MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY. 131 

ily or household, v. 6. put asunder — separate. The teaching 
is this ; God created one man and one woman, united them in 
marriage: marriage therefore is between one man and one 
woman; and because God joins them in marriage, man may not 
separate them. v. 9. except for fornication— this, and this 
alone, breaks the marriage bond, see Matt. 5 : 32. v. 12. Three 
exceptional classes spoken of: (1) those who were born unfitted 
for marriage; (2) those who are made unfit for it by others ; (3) 
those who willingly live unmarried, for the kingdom of 
heaven's sake — to do God's work, as Paul, 1 Cor. 9:5. v. 13. 
little children — infants, v. 14. Suffer — allow them to come, 
v. 15. laid his hands — Mark 10 : 16 says, he took them up in 
his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What is the title of the last lesson ? How 
many times should we forgive a penitent ? Why have a for- 
giving spirit ? What parable illustrates this ? 

OET THE LESSON. 

1. Law of Marriage. — From what country did Jesus depart? 

v. 1 Where to ? By what route ? 
W T hat is said about his followers? v. 2. What did he do? 
Who came to him, and for what purpose ? v. 3. What 

question did they ask ? 
How did God create man? v. 4. 
Who then instituted marriage? v. 5. And where? 

What is the law of marriage as given here ? 
What is said about not separating those who are married? 

v. 6. 
What did they reply? v. 7. 
What did Jesus answer? v. 8. What did he mean by 

" hardness of your hearts " ? How was > s vvx«, 

it from the beginning? What did he "$$x^J 

mean by this ? 
What does he lay down as the true rule 

for divorce? v. 9. 

2. Who may Marry. — What objectior>did the 

disciples raise ? v. 10. 
How did Jesus answer them? v. 11. 

What did he mean by this saying ? Why cannot they 
receive it ? 




132 people's lesson book. 

What exceptional cases are spoken of? v. 22. What did 

he finally say on this subject? 
3. Children Blessed.— Who were brought to Jesus? v. 13. 

And for what? What did the disciples do? What is 

meant by rebuked ? 
What did Jesus say to this? v. 14. What did he say of 

the children ? What does this mean ? 
What did he do to them ? v. 15. How does this encourage 

children to go to him now ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS. 
Learn hence : 

1. That marriage is sacred and binding ; 

2. The wickedness of human law which destroys God's 

law as to divorce ; 

3. The wickedness of those who forbid to marry on the 

plea that the single state is holier ; 

4. Jesus blesses children and invites them to him ; 

5. Parents may bring their children to Christ. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Cite texts of Scripture proving that the family is founded on God's 
command. 

2. Describe instances mentioned in the Bible where God blessed chil- 
dren. 



LESSON 50. [A. D. 29. 

THE RICH YOUNG MAN.— Matt. 19 : 16-26. 

MEMORY TEXT.— Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt 
be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, 
and thou shalt have treasure in heaven : and come and 
follow me.— Matt. 19 : 21. 



-4 

LESSON OUTLINE. 


► — 




Home Readings. 




M. 


The Great Question.... Matt. 19 : 16-26. 




T, 


The Commandments...Ex. 20 : 1-17. 


1. The Rich Seeker. 


W. 


Keeping the Law James 2 : 8-18. 




Th. 


The Test Applied Luke 9 : 57-62. 


2. The Danger in 


F. 


The Wise Choice Josh. 24 : 14-24. 




S. 


Love of Wealth 1 Tim. 6 : 6-12. 


Riches. 


s. 


Possible with God Jer. 32 : 17-44. 



THE RICH YOUNG MAN. 133 

Time.— A. D. 29. 

Place.— Persea beyond Jordan. 

Persons. — Jesus, rich young ruler, disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— As Jesus was going through Persea, a rich 
young ruler came running to him, and kneeled down, and said, Vrhat 
good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? Jesus said, Keep the 
Commandments. The young man said that he had kept them, and 
asked what he lacked yet. Jesus then told him to sell all his possessions 
and give the money to* the poor, and to come and follow him. Then the 
young man went away with a sad heart, for it was set upon his riches. 
Jesus then warned the disciples of the great danger of trusting in riches. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 16. one came — a ruler, Luke 18 : 18 ; Mark 10 : 17. v. 
17. Why callest ... me good — or why askest thou me about 
the good? God alone is good; keep the commandments — he 
was set upon doing something ; Christ tells him they are the 
rule of duty. v. 18. Which — what kind or which one of the 
commandments, v. 20. All these . . . kept — as he understood 
them ; what lack I yet — as if he would say, though I have 
done all this, yet I am not satisfied, v. 21. perfect — wanting 
in nothing, v. 22. sorrowful — sad, or grieved, that he could 
not have what he sought without such a sacrifice, v. 24. easier 
for a camel — a proverbial expression, v. 25. exceedingly 
amazed — greatly astonished ; Who then — if not the rich, who 
then ? If it is so difficult, how can any be saved ? v. 26. with 
God — his power and his alone can do it by his almighty grace. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review — What is the title of the last lesson. Who 
asked about marriage and divorce ? What law did Jesus lay 
down for divorce ? How did he receive little children ? Who 
forbade them? W T hat invitation did Jesus give? 

COT THE LESSOR. 

I. The Rich Seeker. What man came to Jesus? v. 16. 

How did he come ? How did he address the Saviour ? 

What did he ask? 
How did Jesus reply ? v. 17. How did this ruler hope to 

be saved ? What did Jesus tell him to do ? Why tell 

him to keep these ? 
What did the young man then ask? v. 18. What did 

Jesus tell him ? 




134 people's lesson book. 

Which of the commandments are named ? vs. 18, 19. 
What did the young man say of them ? v. 20. How was 

this true? What did he mean by " what lack I yet " ? 
What did Jesus say to him? v. 21. Meaning of "per- 
fect " ? How are we to regard that direction of the 
Saviour? What choice was given 
the young man ? 
When this direction was given what 
did he do? v. 22. What is im- 
plied in his turning away? How 
did he feel? Why did he grieve? 
What does his conduct show that he 
lacked? 
2. Danger of Riches. What did Jesus 
say to the disciples ? v. 23. Why 
Supposed Needles Eye i s it so hard? Mark 10 : 24. Why 

are men so liable to trust in riches ? 
What did he say again ? v. 24. What did he mean by this ? 
How did these words affect the disciples ? v. 25. What 

did they say ? What does their question mean? 
How did Jesus answer them ? v. 26. Why is it impossi- 
ble with men? How is it possible with God? How 
alone can any be saved? 

PKACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. "We must come to Christ not merely as to a teacher, 

but as to a divine Saviour. 

2. Our own doing will never gain heaven. 

3. Nor will it bring rest to our souls. 

4. The one thing needful is a heart to love God. 

5. We must be willing to give up all for Christ. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write some of the reasons why riches may keep us from loving God. 

2. State why trying to keep the law cannot give us peace nor save us. 



LESSON 51. [A. D. 30. 

THE DISCIPLES' REWARD.— Matt. 19 : 27-30; 20 : 1-16. 

MEMORY TEXT— And he said unto them : Go ye also 
into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I "will give you. 
And they went their way.— Matt. 20 : 4. 



THE DISCIPLE'S REWARD. 135 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Peter Answered. 

2. The Laborers. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Reward Matt. 19 : 27 to 20 : 16. 

T. Sit upon Thrones Luke 22 : 24-30. 

W. The Vinevard Isa. 5 : 1-7. 

T. The Laborers 1 Cor. 3 : 1-10. 

F. Worthy of their Hire.l Cor. 9 : 7-17. 

S. Equal unto Us Acts 15 : 1-12. 

S. Justice and Grace Rom. 3 : 21-31. 



Time.— A. D. 30. 

Place. — Peraea. 

Persons. — Jesus, Peter, disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Jesus had taught that whoever will be his 
disciple must be willing to give up all for him. Now Peter asks, What 
shall we have? The answer is, that they shall share in his future glory. 
Then in the parable of the laborers in the vineyard, he shows that these 
rewards are of mercy and dependent upon the will of the giver. In giv- 
ing them, God is true to his promise, and just in all his dealing with 
men. In giving much to one, he does no wrong to any other. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 27. Then answered Peter — his statement and question 
arise from verse 21. v. 28. regeneration — when all things shall 
be made new, 2 Pet. 3 : 13. v. 30. first . . . last, &c— a pro- 
verbial expression. Those who now have the first places of 
honor, may have the least reward there. Believers' rewards are 
not on the legal principle of so much work for so much pay : 
but doing all from love to Christ, v. 1. like unto a man — God 
deals with his people as this man did with his laborers, v. 2. 
penny — denarius, 15 cents, the usual pay of a Roman soldier. 
v. 3. third hour — nine o'clock: marketplace — near the gate 
where people went for trade, or to find work. v. 4. whatsoever 
is right — no price agreed upon. v. 5. sixth and ninth hour — 
twelve and three P. M. v. 6. eleventh — five o'clock, only one 
hour left for work. v. 8. give them their hire — their wages ;pay 
them. v. 10. every man a penny — what the first had agreed to 
work for. v. 11. murmured — found fault, v. 12. equal unto 
us — paid them the same ; burden and heat — have worked all day, 
and in the hot part of it. v. 13. no wrong — your pay is the 
full amount agreed upon. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review— Give the title of the last lesson ? Where did 
the event occur? What was the rich young man directed to 



136 people's lesson book. 

do ? Why was he sorrowful ? What is said of the danger 
of riches? 

OlST THE LESSON". 

1. Peter Answered. — What did this lead Peter to say ? v. 

27. What suggested this question ? What had the dis- 
ciples left ? 

What did Jesus mean by the " regeneration " ? v. 28. 
What promise did he make the disciples? What did 
he mean by this ? 

What did he further promise? v. 29. What alone gives 
value to the self-denial spoken of? What the final re- 
ward ? What final caution is given ? How explained ? 

2. The Laborers. — What is a parable? What does this 

one teach ? v. 1 . Meaning of the " kingdom of heaven " ? 
Of "householder"? 

When did he engage 
the first laborers ? 
v. 2. For how 
much? 
What did he do 
afterwards ? vs. 
3, 4. What was 

Roman Penny. th « "^"k® 1 " 

place"? What 

time of day was it ? What agreement did he make with 

these? 
At what times did he employ others ? vs. 5-7. When did 

he hire the last ? Why had these men been idle ? What 

did he say to them ? 
What did he do in the evening ? v. 8. What was a 

" steward " ? What is the meaning of " hire " ? 
In what way did he pay them ? v. 9. 
What did the last receive ? v. 10. What did the first ones 

hired think ? What did they receive ? How did they 

receive it? 
What did they complain of? v. 12. How were the last 

made equal to the first ? 
How were their complaints answered ? v. 13. Why had 

they no right to find fault ? What did the man then say 

he would do ? 




TRUE AND FALSE GREATNESS. 137 

What right did he claim for himself? v. 14. 
"What was the real reason for their complaint ? v. 15. 
What is the application of the parable? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Saints receive an hundredfold for all that they give 

up for Christ. 

2. We should have the feeling not of servants, but of 

children. 

3. "We should not be envious of gifts to others. 

4. The gospel call is even to the latest hour. 

5. If we are saved it is of God's free grace. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. State plainly how a sinner can be saved. 

2. Tell what God offers to those who serve him. 



LESSON 52. [A. D. 30. 

TRUE AND FALSE GREATNESS.— Matt. 20 : 17-34. 

MEMORY TEXT.— Even as the Son of man came not 
to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life 
a ransom for many.— Matt. 20 : 28. 



# 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Crucifixion Fore- 

told. 

2. The Greatest. 

3. Two Blind Men 

Healed. 



Home Readings. 

M. Greatness Matt. 20 : 17-34. 

T. Seeking for Place Mark 10 : 35-45. 

W. Drinking of the Cup.Mark 14 : 32-42. 
Th. The Place Prepared...John 14 : 1-11. 

F. As the Master John 13 : 3-17. 

Sat. Mercy Sought Ps. 51 : 1-13. 

S. Sight for the Blind... .Mark 10 : 46-52. 



Time.— A. D. 30. 
Place. — Near Jericho. 

Persons.— Jesus, James, John, their mother Salome, the ten disciples, 
two blind men. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus on the way to Jerusalem again told 
the disciples of his sufferings, and death. Eemembering the promise, 
that they should sit upon thrones in his kingdom, James and John, 



138 people's lesson book. 

through their mother, asked for the places of honor. Jesus said they did 
not know what they were asking ; and that such places were his Father's 
gift. Then the other disciples were angry at James and John for making 
this request. So Jesus said to the disciples that, in his kingdom, the truly 
humble were the truly great. When they were near Jericho, Jesus re- 
stored sight to two blind men who were sitting by the roadside ; and they 
followed him in the way. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 17. apart — away from the crowd on the road. v. 
18. condemn ... to death — on false charges : though they had 
no power to execute the sentence, John 18 : 31. v. 19. Gentiles 
— the Romans who then were the civil rulers, v. 20. mother — 
Salome; .with her sons — James and John: two of the disciples. 
v. 21. one on thy right, &c. — the places of highest honor and 
power, v. 22. know not what ye ask — they did not know the 
nature of his kingdom, and that only through deep suffering it 
could be obtained ; the cup — symbol of his agony in the gar- 
den, and on the cross; be baptized — another figure signifying 
the same sufferings, John 17 : 19 ; Heb. 10 : 29. v. 23. not mine 
to give — not to be given to favorites, nor at all ; but — or except^ 
to them for whom it is prepared, v. 25. exercise authority — 
the meaning is that human governments rule those under 
them by force, v. 26. minister — or servant, v. 28. ministered 
unto — not to be served by others; but to be himself a servant; 
a ransom — the price paid for redemption, v. 30. two blind 
men — Mark and Luke mention but one, Bartimeus, probably 
the chief one. v. 34. touched their eyes — as the means by 
which he made them see. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — About what did we study in the last lesson? 
What parable is given to illustrate the truth? What did 
Jesus promise to the disciples ? 

OK THE LESSON. 

I. Crucifixion Foretold.— To what city did Jesus now go? 
v. 17. What did he do in the way? 
What did he tell the disciples? v. 18. What is meant 
by " betrayed " ? What would his enemies do? Why 
would they not put him to death ? 
To whom would they deliver him? v. 19. How would 
they treat him ? Meaning of " mock," " scourge," u cru- 
cify " ? What then would follow on the third day ? 



' 



TRUE AND FALSE GREATNESS. 139 

2. The Greatest. — Who tlien came to Mm? v. 20. What 

was her name ? What her sons' names ? How did she 

come ? 
What did Jesus ask her? v. 21. For what did she ask? 

What did she mean by this ? What kind of a kingdom 

did they expect ? 
How did Jesus answer ? v. 22. What did he ask them ? 

What did he mean by " his cup n ? and by his " baptism "? 

What did they answer him ? 
What reply did Jesus make to this ? y. 23, How did they 

drink of his cup ? What did he then say as to their re- 
quest ? 
How did the other disciples feel towards James and John ? 

y. 24. 
What did Jesus say to allay their anger ? ys. 25. 26. What 

does he say of ciyil rulers? How do they rule those 

under them ? How does he say it shall be among them? 

Who is great in Christ's kingdom? 
What is said of the one who will be chief? y. 27. 
What example does he giye them? y. 28. What did 

Jesus come into the world to do ? What is meant by 

ransom ? How was his life giyen as a '' ransom " ? 

3. Two Blind Men Healed.— V\ no followed him near Jericho? 

y. 29. Where was Jericho ? 

Who were sitting by the road side ? y. 30. How did they 
call to Jesus? 

What did the multitude say to them? y. 31. What was 
the effect of this rebuke ? What did they mean by call- 
ing Jesus the Son of Dayid ? 

How did Jesus regard the blind men? y. 32. 

What did they ask Jesus to do ? y. 33. 

What did Jesus do to them ? y. 34. What was the effect 
of the touch ? What did the men then do ? What the 
effect upon the people ? 

PKACTICAL TEACHINGS. 

1. Christians often ask for unwise things. 

2. "We must bear the cross if we would wear the crown. 

3. Our highest honor is to be like the Master. 

4. Jesus alone can make the spiritually blind to see. 



140 people's lesson book. 

LESSOR 53. [A. D. 30. 

THE KINGLY ENTRY AND THE CHILDREN'S WELCOME. 
Matt. 21 : 1-17. 

MEMORY VERSE— And the multitudes that went 
before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the 
Son of David : Blessed is he that cometh in the name of 
the Lord ; Hos'anna in the highest.— Matt. 21 : 9. 

© 9 © 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Triumphal En- 

try. 

2. Kingly Power. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Kingly Entry Matt. 21 : 1-17. 

T. Jesus is King Ps. 2 : 1-12. 

W. His Coming Foretold... Isa. 62 : 6-12. 

Th. Meek and Lowly Matt. 11 : 25-30. 

F. Psalm of Triumph Ps. 24 : 1-10. 

Sat. Power given Him Phil. 2 : 5-13. 

S . Prophecy Fulfilled Ps. 8:1-9. 



Time.— A. D. 30. 

Places.— Bethany, Jerusalem. 

Persons.— Jesus, disciples, multitudes. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — When Jesus left Jericho he went to Beth- 
any where he had raised Lazarus from the dead. Then Jesus made his 
triumphal entry into Jerusalem, riding on a young ass; the multitude 
crying hosanna, and calling him the Son of David. The whole city was 
greatly excited ; some with joy, and others with fear and anger. Jesus 
accepted the homage of the multitude and of the children in the temple, 
and gave proof of his kingly power in driving out of the temple those 
who were defiling it by making it a place for trade. In the evening, he 
went again to Bethany. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. Jerusalem . . , Bethphage . . . mount of Olives — see 
Diet. v. 2. village over against you — opposite, probably Beth- 
phage, John 12 : 1, 12; straightway — as soon as they should en- 
ter it ; ass . . . and colt — the Messiah was foretold as coming thus, 
Zech. 9:9. v. 3. say aught — object to your taking them; The 
Lord — meaning Jesus, v. 7. put . . . their clothes — coats or 
outer garments, v. 8. spread their garments — in honor of the 
King; branches from the trees — palm and olive branches, 
symbols of joy. v. 9. multitudes^-there were very great crowds 
at this time at the passover; went before, and that followed— 



I 



THE KEsGLY ENTRY. 141 

a procession moving behind and before him as an escort ; Hos- 
anna, — literally " save now." v. 12. went into the temple 
— as foretold Mai. 3:1; cast out — drove out all the traders; 
money changers — who gave Jewish coin for the temple service, 
in exchange for the Eoman money ; sold doves — which were 
used for sacrifices, v. IS. It is written — Isa. 56 : 7; den of 
thieves — they defrauded the people, v. 15. sore displeased — 
at the popular favor, and especially at the hosannas of the chil- 
dren, v. 16. Hearest thou — not simply, do you hear ? but, do 
you accept this homage as King? Yea — yes, and he claims in 
this the fulfillment of prophecy Ps. 8:1.* v. 17. left them — in 
the evening ; into Bethany — about two miles East of Jerusalem. 

QUESTIONS. 
For Review. — What was the subject of the last lesson ? 
Who made an ambitious request ? For whom ? How was it 
answered? Who are truly great in God's kingdom? Who 
were healed near Jericho ? 

OlM THE LESSON. 

1. Triumphal Entry. — To what citv was Jesus going? v. 1. 

Where was Bethphage ? The Mt of Olives ? 
Where did Jesus send two disciples? v. 2. For what? 
What directions did he give? v. 3. 
What prophecy was fulfilled in this? vs. 4, o. Meaning 

of ,k daughter of Zion M ? 
What did the disciples do? v. 6. 

What did they do with the animals they had brought? v. 7. 
What did the multitude do ? v. 8. Why did they do this ? 
What did thev crv? v. 9. What did thev mean bv 

"Hosanna"? By "Messed"? By "he that cometk" ? 
What took place when he entered the city? v. 10. What 

did they ask ? 
How did the multitude answer? v. 11. 

2. Kingly Power. — Into what building did Jesus go? v. 12. 

Where was this temple built ? What can you say of its 

history ? Give a description of it ? 
How did Jesus purify it? v. 12. Who were the money 

changers ? Why were doves sold there ? 
What did he say ? v. 13. Where was this written ? 
Who came to him there? v. 14. What did he do to 

them ? How was this a further proof of kingly power ? 



~jr 



142 



PEOPLES LESSON BOOK. 



What is said of the chief priests and scribes? v. 15. 

Why were they so much displeased ? 
What did they say to him? v. 16. What did they 

mean by this? What did Jesus answer? Where are 

these words found ? 
Where did Jesus go for the night ? v. 17. Where was 

Bethany ? At whose house did he probably stay ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Jesus comes as the King of Zion. 

2. The children greet him with hosannas. 

3. He is King : he rules us in love ; or in judgment. 

4. He will reign until all enemies are put under his feet. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write a description, in your own words, of our Lord's entry into 
Jerusalem. 
2 Write a description of the temple in Jerusalem in the time of Christ. 



LESSON 54. [A. D. 30. 

BARREN FIG TREE AND UNBELIEF.— Matt. 21 : 18-32. 

MEMOEY TEXT— Verily I say unto you, If ye have 
faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done 
to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, 
Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall 
be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in 
prayer, believing, ye shall receive.— Matt. 21 : 21, 22. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. A Fruitless 

Tree. 

2. Authority Ques- 

tioned. 

3. The Two Sons. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Barren Tree Matt. 21 : 18-32. 

T. No Fruit Luke 13 : 1-9. 

W. Prayer of Faith James 5 : 12-20. 

Th. Authority Question'd.Acts 4 : 5-12. 

F Wilful Unbelief Uohn 2 : 7-11. 

Sat. The Two Sons Luke 15 : 11-32. 

S. Result of Unbelief.... Luke 19 : 41-48. 



Time— A. D. 30. 

Places. — Bethany and Jerusalem. 



BARREN FIG TREE AND UNBELIEF. 143 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, chief priests, elders, people. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— When Jesus left Bethany early in the 
morning to go to Jerusalem he was hungry, and seeing a fig tree by the 
roadside having leaves, he rvent to it, hut found no fruit, then he said 
that the tree should never bear any fruit and presently it dried up. In 
this he shovrs the judgment that would shortly come upon the Jewish 
people. In the temple the chief priests and the elders came to him and 
wanted to know by what authority he acted. They asked this with an 
evil purpose ; and "so he answered "their question by asking them about 
John's baptism : the answer to it involves the answer to the question 
they had asked him. And then, in the parable of the two sons, he 
shows that while they profess to serve God they really disobey him. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse IS. he hungered — was hungry, v. 19. leaves only — 
the leaves gave promise of fruit ; as the fruit appears before the 
leaves, v. 22. all things — a great promise, see Matt. 17 : 20. 
v. 23. By what authority— by what power ; these things — all 
that he had done ; is it from God, or whence is it? v. 25. bap- 
tism of John— John's whole mission; reasoned — discussed the 
matter, v. 27. We cannot tell — literally, we do not know; 
Neither tell I you, &c. — that is, since you refuse John's testi- 
mony to me as Messiah, which you dare not deny, I will give 
no other answer, v. 28. two sons — represent these chief men, 
and the publicans; the first — the one who represents the pub- 
licans, v. 29. will not — he treats the request with contempt; 
repented — changed his mind, and conduct also. v. 30. second 
— who represents the chief priests ; I go — makes good promise 
but did not go. v. 31. publicans and the harlots — the worst 
sort of people ; kingdom of God — become Christians ; before 
you — they enter in while you do not enter in at all. way of 
righteousness — as pointing out that way. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review — What is the title of the last lesson? Into 
what city did Jesus enter ? In what way ? By whom was he 
welcomed ? What did he do in the temple ? Whither go at 
night? 

OlST THE LESSON. 

1. Fruitless Tree. — To what place did Jesus return in the 
morning? v. 18. Why did he go to the fig tree ? What 
reason had he to expect to find fruit ? 
What did he find? v. 19. What did he say to the tree? 
What is said of this tree afterwards ? 



144 people's lesson book. 

When the disciples saw it dried up what did they say ? v. 

20. What did this express? 
What answer did Jesus make to them ? v. 21, What did 

he mean by this? 
What did he say about prayer ? v. 22. How is this to be 

understood ? 

2. Authority Questioned.— To what building in the city did 

Jesus go? v. 23. Who came to him there? What did 
they demand of him? What things did they refer to? 
What did they mean by " authority " ? What by the 
question, "who gave thee this authority" ? 

How did Jesus answer them? v. 24. What promise? 

What was his question? v. 25. What is the meaning of 
u from heaven " or " of men " ? How would the answer 
to this question furnish an answer to theirs? What 
did they do ? 

How did they reason on this subject? v. 26. Why could 
they not say " from heaven " ? Why not " of men " ? 

What did they answer? v. 27. What did this answer 
really mean? What did Jesus then say to them? 

3. The Two Sons. — With what question did he begin a par- 

able? v. 28. Who are meant by the two sons? Which 
of them was first spoken to? What was told him? 
What is meant by u vineyard " ? 

What did this son answer ? v. 29. What did he after- 
wards do ? 

What was said to the second son ? v. 30. What was his 
answer ? 

What did Jesus ask about these? v. 31. Which one of 
them had done the father's will ? How does Jesus apply 
the parable? What does he mean by entering the king- 
dom of God ? What by saying, before you ? 

How does he illustrate this from the facts? v. 32. How had 
these "chief" men received John's ministry ? How had 
the publicans received it ? What is further said of them ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. A mere profession of piety is " nothing but leaves." 

2. All things are possible to faith. 

3. The works of Christ are a surer testimony than that 

of John. 

4. The Lord says to us, Go work to-day. 



THE WICKED HUSBANDMEN. 145 

LESSON 55. [A. D. 30. 

THE WICKED HUS3ANDMEN.— Matt. 21 : 33-46. 

MEMORY TEXT —Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never 
read in the Scriptures, The stone which the builders re- 
jected, the same is b jcome the head of the corner : this is 
the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?— Matt. 
21 :42. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Parable. 

2. The Application. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Husbandmen Matt. 21 : 33-46. 

T. Servants Abused Luke 20 : 9-20. 

W. The Heir Heb. 1 : 1-4. 

T. The Son Slain Acts 3 : 13-18. 

R Head of the Corner 1 Peter 2 : 6-10. 

S. Husbandmen Destr'd...Luke 21 : 20-24. 

S. Viney'd given to Oth'rs. Acts 13 : 44-49. 



Time.— A. D.30. 

Place.— Jerusalem. 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, chief priests, elders, people. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Heretofore Jesus had avoided open con- 
flict with the scribes. Sow, however, he faces their opposition; boldly 
asserts his claim to be the Messiah; and plainly rebukes their wicked- 
ness. Under the parable of wicked husbandmen, he sets forth the 
conduct of the Jews towards God's prophets and teachers: and finally 
the treatment which he himself would receive at their hands. For this 
he declares that the kingdom of God will be taken from them and given 
to the Gentiles. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 33. householder — master of the house; hedged it — 
planted a thorn hedge about it for a fence; tower — from which 
to watch the grounds; let it out — rented it, for a share of the 
fruit; far country — or " into another country." v. 34. receive 
the fruits— as rent due. v. 36. other servants— kept sending 
them to get what was due to him. By the servants are meant the 
prophets sent by God to his people, v. 37. his son — Jesus himself; 
reverence — have respect for. v. 38. the heir — future owner of the 
vineyard by inheritance, v. 30. slew him— so Jesus was rejected 
and put to death, v. 42. Scriptures— Ps. 113 : 22; builders- 
referring to these priests and rulers; head of the corner — chief 
corner stone, v. 43. kingdom of God . . . taken from you—the 



146 people's lesson book. 

Jews were rejected ; the Gentiles were called, v. 44. broken — 
literally broken to pieces, v. 45. spake of them — did not see 
the drift of the parable until now. v. 46. lay hands— seize 
him. 

QUESTIONS. 

FOP Review. — What tree is mentioned in the last lesson ? 
Why was it expected to have fruit ? Of what was it a type ? 
What is said of faith and prayer ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Parable. — What is the parable in this lesson usually 

called ? 
What had been done in this vineyard ? v. 33. To whom 

was it let out ? Whither did the owner depart ? What 

had God done for Israel ? 
What is meant by "the time of the fruit"? v. 34. For 

what did the owner send ? Whom did he send ? 
How were the servants treated ? v. 35. 
What did he again do ? v. 36. How were these received ? 
What did he do at last ? v. 37. What reason for sending 

the son? Who are meant by the servants ? Who by the 

son? Can you mention any prophets whom the Jews 

persecuted and killed ? 
How did the husbandmen speak of the son ? v. 38. 
What did they do to him ? v. 39. What is an heir ? 

2. The Application. — W T hat question did Jesus then ask? 

v. 40. What does he mean by the Lord's coming ? 
What did they answer? v. 41. What will he do with his 

vineyard ? Why did they give this answer ? 
What did Jesus then say to them? v. 42. Where is this 

found? Ps. 118 : 22. Who are meant by the builders? 

What is meant by head of the corner ? 
How does he apply this to their case ? v. 43. How should 

the kingdom be taken from them ? To whom given ? 

and why ? 
What does he say about this stone ? v. 44. What would 

be the effect of falling on the stone ? and the stone fall- 
ing on one ? 
What did the scribes now perceive ? v. 45. 
What would they have done? v. 46. What hindered 

them? 



MARRIAGE OF THE KING'S SON. 



147 



PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. God offers full provision for his people. 

2. Unfaithfulness forfeits these privileges. 

3. The prosperity of the wicked is short. 

4. To reject the Saviour is to perish for ever. 



WICKED HUSBANDMEN. 


CALLS REFUSED. 


SERVANTS BEATEN. 


SON SLAIN. 


THE WICKED LOST. 



LESSOR 56. [A. D. 30. 

MARRIAGE OF THE KING'S SON.— Matt. 22 : 1-14. 

MEMORY TEXT— Go ye therefore into the high- 
ways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage- 
Matt. 22 : 9. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Guests Invited. 

2. Guests Assem- 

bled. 

3. Guest Rejected. 



©- 



Home Readings. 

M. The King's Son Matt. 22 : 1-14. 

T. Invitation Given Rom. 10 : 6-17. 

W. Invitation Rejected Luke 14 : 15-24. 

Th. The Last Invitation Rev. 22 : 12-17. 

F. Gathered Guests Rev. 7 : 4-17. 

Sat. Wedding Garment Eph. 4:20-30. 

S. Cast Out Rev. 20 : 11-15. 



Time.— A. D. 30. 

Place. — Jerusalem. 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, chief priests, rulers, people. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus now shows the rulers how they 
have disowned God as their King. Because of this judgment will overtake 
them. But God will have a people to honor him : so the gospel invitation 
is sent to the Gentiles. The King will at the last cast out those who do 
not accept the robe of Christ's righteousness. 



148 people's lesson book. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 3. servants — those sent to the Jewish people, the pro- 
phets, John the Baptist, the apostles ; bidden — the Jews, God's 
chosen people, v. 6. the remnant — the rest of them ; entreated 
. . . spitefully — showed their spite against the king by treat- 
ing his servants cruelly, v. 7. sent forth, his armies — the 
reference is to the destruction of Jerusalem, v. 8. not worthy 
— for they rejected the invitation, see Acts 13 : 46. v. 9. high- 
ways — literally the road crossings, v. 10. bad and good — with- 
out any regard to character, v. 11. the guests — those who had 
come; wedding garment — a robe was furnished; so we may 
have the robe of Christ's righteousness, Phil. 3:9. v. 12. not 
having — thus showing contempt for the king ; speechless — had 
no good excuse, v. 13. Bind — he was speechless and helpless; 
outer darkness — out of the house ; hence spiritual banishment 
from God; weeping, &c. — helpless and hopeless suffering. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the subject of the last lesson? 
Who let the vineyard to husbandmen ? What did he expect 
in return ? How did they treat his servants and his son ? 
Who are meant by the husbandmen, the son and the king ? 

OK" THE LESSON. 

1. Guests Invited. — To whom did Jesus speak this parable? 

v. 1. 

What does this parable illustrate? v. 2. Who is meant 
by the " king " ? By the " son " ? What by the " mar- 
riage " ? 

Who were sent out ? v. 3 What to do ? Who had been 
bidden? How was this invitation received ? 

What then was done ? v. 4. What reason was given why 
they should come ? What does this represent ? 

How did some of them treat this invitation ? v. 5. What 
did they do? 

What did the rest of them do ? v. 6. What is the mean- 
ing of such conduct ? 

How did it affect the king? v. 7. What did he do? To 
what does this refer ? What army ? What city ? 

2. Guests Assembled. — What did the king then say to the 



HERODIANS AND SADDUCEES SILENCED. 149 

servants? v. 8. How were they not worthy? "What 
does this verse imply ? 

What did he then tell the servants to do? v. 9. "Who 
were invited? From what places? Of what sort? 
Who are invited to the gospel feast? 

What was the result of this call ? v. 10. 
3. Guest Rejected. — Who came to see the guests? v. 11. 
What did he see? Meaning of " wedding garment" ? 

What did he say to him? v. 12. What did the want of 
it imply ? Why did he not answer ? How does it ap- 
pear that it was wilful contempt ? Who are the ser- 
vants here? 

What did the king tell them to do ? v. 13. What does 
the binding imply? W here did they cast him? How 
is his condition described ? 

What application is made of the parable? v. 14. What 
does this mean ? 

PKACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Jesus now invites all to come to him. 

2. To make light of his invitation is perilous. 

3. Invitations are often repeated ; but soon it will be too 

late to come. 

4. "We must be clothed in the righteousness of Christ. 



CSIiKo BY CHRIST. 



LESSON 57. [A. D. 30. 

HERODIANS AND SADDUCEES SILENCED. 
Matt. 22 : 15-33. 

MEMORY VEESE.-. . . Bender therefore unto Caesar 
the things which are Caesar's ; and unto God the things 
that are God's— Matt. 22 : 21. 



150 people's eessok book. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Plot. 

2. The Roman Tax. 

3. The Resurrec- 

tion. 



Home Readings. 

M. Opposers Silenced Matt. 22 : 15-33. 

T. Woe to Hypocrites Luke 11 ; 42-54. 

W. Duty to Kulers Eom. 13 : 1-7. 

Th. Duty to God Deut. 6 : 1-15. 

F. Moses' Law Deut. 25 : 5-10. 

Sat. Burning Bush Ex. 3 : 1-6. 

S. The Eesurrection 1 Cor. 15 : 35-54. 



Time.— A. D. 30. 

Place.— Jerusalem. 

Persons. — Jesus, disciples, Herodians, Pharisees, Sadducees. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— The rulers tried to catch Jesus in his talk, 
by sending men to him who pretended to think highly of his wisdom. 
They asked whether it was right to pay a tax to Caesar. But Jesus saw 
their plot. The answer he gave them is in verse 21. Then others came 
who denied the future life. They asked a puzzling question ; Jesus taught 
them that there was a future life, and a resurrection. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verve 15. entangle — entrap, ensnare, v. 16. their disciples 
— Luke 20 : 20 describes these men as spies ; Herodians — friends 
and supporters of Herod ; regardest not — that is, you are im- 
partial. By this flattery they hoped to put Jesus off his guard. 
v. 17. What thinkest thou ? — what is your opinion ? tribute 
— the Roman civil tax; unto Caesar — the Roman Emperor 
Tiberius. If Jesus said yes, the Jews would be angry ; if no, 
the Romans might arrest him. v. 18. their wickedness — their 
evil design; tempt — try; hypocrites — actors, deceivers, v. 19. 
tribute money — the coin in which the tax was paid; penny- 
denarius, worth about fifteen cents, v. 20. image — the likeness 
of the emperor was stamped upon the coin ; superscription— 
his name and title were there also. v. 21. Render — pay back ; 

Eay Caesar and God each their dues. v. 22. marvelled — taken 
y surprise at his answer, v. 23. Sadducees — see Diet. ; no 
resurrection — see Acts 23 : 8. v. 24. Moses said — Deut. 25 : 5 ; 
unto his brother — the children should be regarded as the chil- 
dren of the deceased brother, v. 28. in the resurrection — they 
thought to show the absurdity of the idea of resurrection by 
showing that a man might have seven wives in the next world, 
v. 29. Ye do err — the difficulty is in your ignorance: (1) not 
knowing the Scriptures — you do not understand what they 
teach ; (2) power of Grod — do not know what God's power can 
do, Acts 26 : 8. v. 30. in the resurrection— in the future state. 



HERODIAXS AND SADDUCEES SILENCED. 



151 



QUESTIONS. 
For Review. — What is the title of the last lesson? Who 
is represented by the king? Who by his son? Who by the 
guests ? By the rejected guest ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Plot.— What did the Pharisees plot to do? v. 15. 

How did they plan to trap Jesus ? 
Whom did they send? v. 16. How are these men de- 
scribed? Who were the Herodians? How did they 
try to natter Jesus ? How show that they were not sin- 
cere ? What character did they give him ? 

2. The Roman Tax. — What questions did they ask ? v. 17 

What was the "tribute"? To whom paid? Who was 

Ca?sar ? By Christ's answering yes, or no, what advantage 

did they hope to gain ? 
What did Jesus perceive? v. 18. What did he say to 

them ? Meaning of " tempt " ? Of " hypocrites n ? " 
What did he ask of them? v. 19. And what did they 

bring him ? Its value ? 
What did he then say to them? 

" image v ? Of " superscription M ? 
What did thev answer 

him? v. 21. What 

did he then tell them? 

To what does the rule 

apply ? What are the 

things due to God? 
What was the effect of 

this answer ? v. 22. Denarius, or Roman Penny of Tiberius. 

3. The Resurrection. — Who next came to question Jesus? 

v. 23. Who were they? What truth did they deny? 
What case did they state? vs. 24-28. What law did they 

refer to? What was their object in asking this? 
In what two things had they erred? vs. 29-31. What is 

meant by being "as the angels" ? 
What Scripture proof does he give them ? v. 32. Where 

is this found ? What is meant by saying " I am the God 

of Abraham/' etc ? What argument does Jesus derive 

from this ? 
What was the effect of this answer ? v. 33. 



v. 20. Meaning of 




152 



people's lesson book. 



PBACTICAIi TEACHINGS: 

1. The wicked, while bitterly opposing each other, can 

unite against the truth. 

2. Civil and religious duties are distinct, yet not in 

conflict. 

3. In regard to the future life, the Scripture not specu- 

lation is our guide. 

4. The future state of believers will be glorious. 



SADDU 
IN N El 
ILENC 



CEES 
RS 
CED. 



S 



Al NTS 

O RROW! NG 

AVED. 



LESSON 58. [A. D. 30. 

THE PHARISEES SILENCED.— Matt. 22 : 34-46. 

MEMOEY VERSE— Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt 
love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy 
soul, and with all thy mind.— Matt. 22 : 37. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Great Com- 

mandment. 

2. David's Son. 



Home Readings. 

M. Pharisees Silenced Matt. 22 : 34-46. 

T. Our Neighbor Luke 10 : 29-37. 

W. Hearing and Doing.... James 1 : 19-27. 

Th. Christian Love 1 Cor. 13 : 1-13. 

F. The Test Question Mark 8 : 34-38. 

S. David's Son Jer. 23 : 5-8. 

S. David's Lord Acts 2 : 25-36. 



Time.— A. D. 30. 

Place.— Jerusalem. 

Persons.— Jesus, disciples, Pharisees. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— The Herodians and Sadducees, who 
thought to ensare Jesus, were silenced. The Pharisees now come with 
their keenest lawyer to trap him in his talk. The test question is. Which 
is the great commandment in the law ? Jesus avoids the snare; he says, 
love to God, and love to man, is the sum of all the law. Then he asks 
them a question. They could not answer the question ; so they did not 
dare to ask him any more questions. 



THE PHARISEES SILENCED. 153 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 35. lawyer — a scribe, Mark 12 : 28; one who explained 
God's law; tempting — trying him. v. 36. Master — teacher; 
great commandment — the most important one. This was a 
matter much disputed among the scribes, v. 37. Thou shalt 
love — he gave them one word to express all the law of God ; 
with all thy heart . . . soul . . . mind — supreme love, a sum- 
mary of thelirst table of the law, Deut. 6:5. v. 38. This first 
— not only in order, but in importance also. v. 39. the second 
— in importance ; is like . . . it — in that love is its main prin- 
ciple; as thyself— see Matt. 7 : 12. v. 40. On these two — as 
the chief laws; all the law and the prophets — all duty is in- 
cluded in them. v. 41. While . . . gathered together — before 
they had left the temple, v. 42. What think ye— what is your 
opinion ; of Christ — the Messiah ; of David — see John 7 : 40-42. 
v. 43. in spirit— by the Holy Spirit, Ps. 110 : 1. v. 44. The 
Lord — i. e., Jehovah ; unto my Lord — i. <?., David's Lord, the 
Messiah; Sit thou — the words of the Father to the Son on 
placing him upon his Mediatorial throne, v. 45. how is he his 
son ? — at once Lord and son ? v. 46. no man was able — the 
answer is, in his human nature he is David's son ; in his divine 
nature he is David's Lord, Rom. 1 : 3, 4. - 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the subject of the last lesson? 
How did they try to catch Jesus in his talk ? Why ? How 
did he answer the question about the tribute ? Give the sub- 
stance of his answer to the Sadducees. 

OK" the lesson. 

I. The Great Commandment. — What brought the Pharisees 

together? v. 34. How far did they make common 

cause with the Sadducees? 
Who spoke for them ? v. 35. Why is he called a " lawyer "? 
What question did he ask? v. 36. What is meant by the 

law? What by "the great commandment" ? 
How did Jesus answer him ? v. 37. What word sums up 

the law? Who is the object of that love? How must 

he be loved ? 
What did he farther say? vs. 38, 39. Who is meant by 

neighbor ? How is he to be loved ? How is this second 



154 people's lesson book. 

commandment like the first ? Who is our neighbor ? 
What does Jesus say of these two commandments ? v. 40. 

What does this mean ? 
2. David's Son. — What question did Jesus now ask the 

Pharisees ? vs. 41, 42. Whom did he mean by " Christ "? 

What did they answer ? Who was David ? 
What question did Jesus then ask them? v. 43. Where 

is this scripture found ? 
To whom does the Lord speak ? v. 44. What is meant by 

sitting on the right hand? How are enemies to be 

made his footstool? How can Messiah be both David's 

son and David's Lord ? 
Why could they not answer ? v. 46. Why did not Jesus 

explain it? Why did they not ask him about it? 

What is said about their questioning him ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS : 

1. The sum of God's commands is not merely in doing, 

but in loving. 

2. He that loves God will love his neighbor also. 

3. We must love God with all our powers ; and our 

neighbor as ourselves. 

4. The Old Testament Scriptures testify of Jesus. 

5. As David's son and David's Lord he is our Redeemer. 

6. He must reign until all enemies are put under his 

feet. 



LESSOST 59. [A. D. 30. 

CHRIST OUR MASTER.— Matt. 23 : l-!2. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 
1. Teac'hing Ap- 



Home Readings. 

M. Christ our Master Matt. 23 : 1-12. 

~ "~ *V "ttt ~£ £ Saying and not Doing. Rom. 2 : 17-29. 

proved ; Works W . Christ our Example Phil. 2 : 1-11. 

Condemned. Th. Humility & Exaltat'n.Prov. 15 : 25-33. 

_ _ ..... „ F Our Shepherd 1 Pet. 5 : 1-11. 

2. Humility Re- SaL 0ur Advocate John 2 : 1-12. 

quired. S. Our Redeemer Rev. 5:6-14. 



•- 



CHRIST OUR MASTER. 155 

MEMOEY TEXT —All therefore whatsoever they bid 
you observe, that observe and do ; but do not ye after 
their works : for they say, and do not.— Matt. 23 : 3. 

Time.— Tuesday, April 4, A. D. 30. 

Place.— The temple in Jerusalem. 

Persons. — Jesus, multitude, Pharisees, scribes. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Jesus tells the people to do what their 
teachers say, but not to follow their bad example. They taught some 
things that were true, because they taught the people the law ; yet these 
teachers were evil-doers. Their religion was for show, and often covered 
great wickedness. True disciples must not be like them; but be sincere 
and humble. Christ alone is their Master. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 2. sit in Moses' seat — to teach, and explain the law 
which Moses gave them, v, 3. all therefore — therefore is em- 
phatic, all that they teach on Moses' authority and from the law, 
observe; in Matt. 15 : 3, he rejects their traditions, here he ap- 
proves their teaching from Moses, but condemns their conduct. 
v. 5. to be seen of men — their religion is for display; phylac- 
teries — strips of parchment with Scripture texts on them worn 
on the forehead or on the arm in time of prayer ; broad — in 
order to attract attention ; borders of their garments — fringes, 
worn for a memorial, Numb, 15 : 38-40, wearing these is not 
forbidden, but only using them for display, v. 6. uppermost 
rooms — the most honorable or chief seats, v. 8. be not ye 
called Rabbi — as they seek to be called, v. 9. call no man 
your father — as in the Eomish use of that word. v. 11. great- 
est . . . servant — here, as said before, chap. 20 : 26-28, he has 
the highest place who serves the best. v. 12. exalt himself 
. . . abased — the Lord will put honor upon true humility. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Who gathered when the Sadducees were 
silenced? For what purpose? What question did the 
lawyer ask ? How did Jesus answer him ? What question 
did Jesus then ask the Pharisees? With what result? 

ON THE LESSON". 

I. Teaching Approved. — After the Pharisees were silenced 
to whom did Jesus speak? v. 1. 
What did he say of the scribes and Pharisees ? v. 2. Who 
was Moses? 



156 people's lesson book. 

What does Jesus here approve? v. 3. What condemn? 
Why did he thus condemn them ? 

What does he say they did ? v. 4. What were these 
heavy burdens ? How are we freed from those burdens ? 
Acts 15 : 11. 

What is said about their works ? v. 5. What were phy- 
lacteries ? "What is meant by borders of their garments ? 

What is said in v. 6 ? What is meant by " uppermost 
rooms," and u chief seats " ? What more did the Pharisees 
love? What is the meaning of "Babbi"? What dis- 
position is shown in this ? 
2. Humility Required. — How is the Pharisee's spirit rebuked ? 
v. 8. What does Jesus forbid ? The reason for it ? 

What does he next forbid? v. 9. And why? 

What should they not be called ? v. 10. Why ? 

What general rule is here given on this subject? v. 11. 
What example is referred to? Who has the highest 
place ? To what does self-seeking lead ? 

What is the reward promised for humility? v. 12. When 
will this take place ? 

LESSONS FOR US: 

1. Bad rulers may teach, truth in their official positions. 

2. We may obey their right teaching : but avoid their 

bad example. 

3. True piety is without display. 

4. The spirit of Christ is a spirit of humility. 

5. Seeking honor and exaltation is contrary to the spirit 

of Christ. 



PHARISEES DISCIPLES 

TAUGHT THE LAW. TEACH THE GOSPEL- 
DISOBEYED GOD. OBEY CHRIST. 
PROUD OF HONORS. ARE CHRIST-LIKE. 



WOES UPON THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES. 157 

LESSON 60. [A. D. 30. 

WOES UPON THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES. 
Matt. 23 : 13-26. 

MEMOEY VERSE.- Woe unto you, scribes and Phar- 
isees, hypocrites ! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and 
cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the 
law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have 
done, and not to leave the other undone.— Matt. 23 : 23. 

©- © 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Sectarian Zeal. 

2. "Wicked Oaths. 

3. Sham Piety. 



Home Readings. 

M. Cast Out John 9 : 22-34. 

T. Not to Preach Acts 4 : 13-22. 

W. Pure Religion James 1 : 12-27. 

Th.. Swearing Forbidden...Matt. 5 : 33-48. 

F. Eight and Truth Ps. 11 : 1-7. 

S. Tithes Micah 6 : 6-15. 

S. Woes Matt. 23 : 13-26. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 59. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — The Pharisees artfully tried to get Jesus 
to say something that would give them an excuse for having him arrested 
by the Roman ruler. They tailed in their purpose. Jesus then an- 
nounced the woes which the Pharisees had brought on themselves by 
their bigotry, their sectarian zeal, their sham piety, and their neglect of 
true religion. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 13. woe unto you — Jesus spoke of seven woes, (eight if 
we county. 14) against the scribes and Pharisees. The first was 
for keeping others out of the kingdom, v. 14. devour widows' 
houses — this verse is omitted in the Revised Version, but the 
same truth is in Luke 20 : 47 ; see also Jas. 1 : 27. v. 15. proselyte 
— one who comes to a new belief— hence a convert, but here not 
a sincere one. v. 16. the temple — see Matt. 5 : 33, 34. v. 17. 
fools — not wanting in sense, but wicked ; not so much a weak 
head, as a bad heart, Ps. 14 : 1; whether is greater — the ques- 
tion shows the distinction to be false; the temple sanctifies the 
gold, the altar the gift. v. 19. sanctifies — makes holy. v. 23. 
pay tithe— the tenth of their produce, Lev. 27 : 30. v. 24. 
strain at — or strain out ; a proverbial expression, they strained 
their wine before drinking lest they should be defiled. 



158 people's lesson book. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — How did Jesus speak of the teaching of the 
Pharisees? What did he say of their acts? What did 
they love? What were disciples not to be called? Why? 
Who would become the greatest among disciples ? 

03KT THE LESSON. 

S. Sectarian Zeal. — Upon whom did Jesus now pronounce 
woes? v. 13. How many woes are uttered ? [Seven, or 
eight including that in verse 14.] What was the first 
woe pronounced ? 

What was the cause of the woe in v. 14 ? How had they 
done these things? See Luke 20 : 47 ; Mark 12 : 40. 

What reason for the next woe? v. 15. What is meant by 
" ye compass sea and land" ? What is meant by " prose- 
lyte " ? What did they make such proselytes to be ? 

2. Wicked Oaths. — Why was the woe pronounced in v. 16? 

What does Jesus call them ? What did they teach in 

regard to oaths ? 
What is the meaning of fools in v. 17 ? 
How does it show their folly? v. 18. What is the Third 

Commandment? What does it forbid? 
What sanctified the gift on the altar? v. 19. 
What is said in v. 20 ? 

What does he do who swears by the temple? v. 21. 
What does he do who swears by heaven ? v. 22. 

3. Sham Piety. — What tithes did the Pharisees carefully 

pay ? v. 23. What had they neglected ? 
How did they further show their hypocrisy ? v. 24. 
What did they make clean ? v. 25. Of what were they 

full? 
What ought they to do ? v. 26. 

LESSONS FOR US: 

1. "We should help others into the kingdom of heaven. 

2. "We should avoid a proselyting and party zeal. 

3. We should be sincere and truthful. 

4. We should be faithful in great duties of religion as 

in little ones. 

5. Have no sham piety. 



WOES rPON PHARISEES iXD JERUSALEM. 159 

LESSON 61. [A. D. 30. 

WOES UPON PHARISEES AND JERUSALEM. 
Matt. 23 : 27-39. 

MEMORY VEESE.-O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou 
that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent 
unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children 
together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her 
wings, and ye would not !— Matt. 23 ; 37. 



LESSON OUTLINE. \ Home Headings. 

1. The Wicked . -J? Lav not Kept 1 Sam .15 : 16-23. 

; T. Outward Appearance. .Mark i : 1-8. 

People. W. Inward Imparity Mark 7 : 17-23. 

I Th. Cannot Escape..". Ps. 139 : 1-12, 

2. The Lament over F. Rejected the Prophets. Acts 7 : 51-59. 

,, —,. . _.. SaL Rejected the Saviour... Acts 3 : 12-15. 
the Holy City. s# House Desolate Luke 19 : 41-48. 

Q 1 



Time, Place and Persons. — See Lesson 59. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus further rebukes the scribes and 
Pharisees for their hypocrisy. They had regard chiefly to the outward 
appearances of religion, while they were full of corrupt thoughts and 
guilty of wicked acts. They had the same spirit as that which led their 
fathers to persecute and kill the prophets: so Jesus told them that they 
were but filling up the measure of their wickedness ; the punishment 
of which was certain to come. Yet they had been often warned : but 
they had refused to hear the prophets ; and were guilty of their blood. 
The Saviour now laments over the holy city and foretells its destruction. 
Soon mercy will end. and justice begin its' work. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Terse 27. whited sepulchres — white-washed, partly from re- 
spect to the dead, and partly to avoid legal defilement, v. 29. 
build the tombs — long neglected, but now built out of pre- 
tended respect ; garnish — decorate or beautify, v. 32. Fill ye 
up — refers probably to their plots against Jesus, v. 33. ser- 
pents, generation of vipers — like them in cunning and dead- 
ly malignity; how can ye escape? — the question implies the 
certainty of the doom; escape is impossible, v. 35. Zacharias 
— it is not certainly known who is referred to, see 2 Chron. 24 : 
20-22. v. 36. this generation — not only this nation ; but in 



160 people's lesson book. 

the life-time of some then living, v. 37. Jerusalem — city put 
for its people, v. 38. desolate — laid waste, ruined, now desolate 
because the Lord its glory was leaving it ; fulfilled completely in 
the destruction of Jerusalem, by the Eomans A. D. 70. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What was the reason of the first woe pro- 
nounced upon the Pharisees? Whose houses had they de- 
stroyed or devoured ? How did they make proselytes ? How 
think to escape in making oaths ? What had they neglected ? 

OET THE LESSOR. 

1. Wicked People. — To what are the Pharisees compared in 

v. 27. To what custom does he refer ? Why was this done ? 

How were the Pharisees like those sepulchres ? v. 28. 

What else is charged against them ? v. 29. Why did 
they build those tombs ? 

What did they say ? v. 30. What did they admit in say- 
ing this ? 

What shows that they were like their fathers in character 
and spirit? v. 31. 

What does Jesus then say to them ? v. 32. What did he 
mean by this ? 

What does he call them ? v. 33. Why call them serpents? 
What is implied in the question " how can ye escape," &c. ? 

What made their doom so certain ? v. 34. How will his 
messengers be treated ? What shall befall them for all 
this ? How was this prediction fulfilled ? Who was Abel ? 
Zach arias? 

What is meant by "this generation" in v. 36? 

2. Lament over the Holy City. — What does he say of Jeru- 

salem? v. 37. What had her people done? What 
would Jesus have done for them ? 

How does he describe their case? v. 38. Meaning of deso- 
late ? When was this fulfilled ? 

When should they see him again ? v. 39. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Sin is fearfully aggravated when committed against 

light and knowledge. 

2. See the guilt of those who reject the Saviour. 

. 3. Jesus still pleads with sinners ; accept him ere it be 
too late ; accept him now. 



COMING OF THE END. 161 

LESSOR* 62. [A.D.30. 

COMING OF THE END.— Matt. 24 : 1-14. 

MEMORY" VERSE —And this gospel of the kingdom 
shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all 
nations ; and then shall the end come.— Matt. 24 : 14 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Questions. 

2. The "Warning. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Temple 1 K'gs 6 : 1-10. 

T. Its Ruin Foretold Micah 3 : 8-12. 

W. False Teachers Acts 20 : 28-32. 

Th. Civil Commotions Luke 21 : 9-11. 

F. Persecution Acts 8 : 1-8. 

Sat. False Brethren 2 Tim. 4: 10-18. 

S . Endure to the End . . . .Heb. 3 : 6-19. 



Time.— Tuesday, April 4, A. D. 30. 

Place. — Mount of Olives. 

Persons.— Jesus, Peter, James, John and Andrew. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — As Jesus and his disciples went out of the 
temple, they showed him the greatness of the building. He answered, 
There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be 
thrown down. Afterwards, as he sat upon the mount of Olives, Peter 
and James and John and Andrew came to him privately and asked him, 
When shall these things be? what sign will there be? what sign of thy 
coming ? and of the end of the world ? In answering these questions 
he first warns them not to be deceived. False teachers will come ; there 
will be wars, persecutions and false brethren. But these are not the 
signs they are to look for. Under all these they should be patient. He 
that endures unto the end shall be saved. Before the end comes this gos- 
pel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto 
all nations. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Terse 2. one stone upon another — this was literally fulfilled. 
v. 3. mount of Olives — on the east, and overlooking the city 
and the temple ; the disciples — Mark 13 : 3, names them, Peter, 
James, John and Andrew ; privately — apart from the rest; Tell 
us — asking apparently four questions; when shall these things 
be 1 — they no doubt looked upon the time of all these things as 
one and the same. v. 4. Take heed — take care, that no man 
deceive you. It was not for them to know the times, Acts 1 : 7, 
only to know their danger and their duty. v. 9. deliver you up 
—expect persecution for Christ's sake ; of all nations — Gentiles 



162 people's lesson book. 

as well as Jews. v. 10. be offended— false brethren would stumble 
and fall away, as the result of persecution Matt. 13 : 21. v. 13. 
endure unto the end — not the end of the world ; but to the end 
of his trials, v. 14. gospel of the kingdom — simply the gos- 
pel; in all the world — not the Roman Empire, or the then 
known world ; but in the widest sense of the word — wherever 
men are found ; for a witness — does not imply that all will re- 
ceive the gospel, but it will be a testimony to all nations ; then 
shall the end come — not the end of the Jewish state, but the 
end of the world. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Why were woes denounced upon the Phari- 
sees? What are the four things in regard to which their 
hypocrisy is rebuked? What should come upon them? 
What was the Saviour's lament? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Questions. — From what place did Jesus depart ? v. 1. 

Who came to him, and why did they come ? Why did 
they speak of the buildings, and the stones ? 

What did Jesus say to them ? v. 2. What did he mean 
by this? 

Where did Jesus sit with disciples ? v. 3. Where was the 
mount of Olives? Who came to him there? What 
fourfold questions did they ask? What " things" did 
they refer to? What signs did they ask for? What 
did they mean by his coming, and the end of the world ? 

2. The Warning. — How did Jesus begin his answer to them? 

v. 4. Why did he not tell them the time ? What was 

it important that they should know ? 
Of what danger did he first warn them? v. 5. 
Of what next did he tell them? v. 6. What would they 

probably expect? Why should they be not troubled? 
What else should there be? v. 7. 
W T hat does he say of all these ? v. 8. 
How would the disciples be treated ? v. 9. How would 

men regard them? Why should they be so treated? 

Why should such treatment not surprise them ? 
What effect should persecution have upon many professed 

disciples? v. 10. What would these false brethren do? 

Meaning of " offended " ? And of " betray " ? 



SIGNS OF THE COMING END. 



163 



Who else should arise to mislead them ? v. 11. Who are 
false teachers ? 

What would be the effect of the prevailing wickedness ? 
v. 12. 

Who would be saved ? v. 13. What is meant by enduring 
to the end ? What is promised to him who so endures? 

What is said of the gospel? v. 14. Where is it to be 
preached? And for what? What is meant by " all the 
world" ? What then should come ; What is meant by 
the end ? What is our duty in this matter ? 

LESSONS: 

1. "Watch against evil-doers. 

2. Error works mischief; deceivers lead only astray. 

3. Trials and persecutions are tests of faith. 

4. "We should be more earnest Christians where wicked- 

ness abounds. 

5. A sure promise is for him who endures to the end. 



THE END. 


DECEIVERS. 


TAKE HEED. 


WARS. 


BE NOT TROUBLED. 


PERSECUTIONS. 


ENDURE. 


FALSE TEACHERS. 


WITNESS FOR JESUS. 



LESSON 63. [A. D. 30. 

SIGNS OF THE COMING END.— Matt. 24 : 15-35. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Signs on Earth. 

2. Signs in Heaven. 



Home Headings. 

M. Signs Matt. 24 : 15-35. 

T. Safety in Flight Luke 21 : 20-24. 

W. Time of Trial Short.... 2 Cor. 4 : 11-18. 

Th. The Coming Luke 17 : 20-25. 

F. Signs in Heaven .Acts 2 : 17-21. 

Sat. God's Word Sure Isa. 51 : 4-8. 

S. Watch l Thess. 5 : 1-10. 



164 people's lesson book. 

MEMORY TEXT —Now learn a parable of the fig tree ; 
"When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, 
ye know that summer is nigh : So likewise ye, when ye 
shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the 
doors.— Matt. 24 : 32, 33. 

Time, Places and Persons.— See Lesson 62. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus said that when the disciples should 
see the Roman army coming to besiege Jerusalem, they should leave the 
city in haste. Fearful calamities would come upon the Jewish people. 
The ruin of Jerusalem was near. He then gives them the sign of 
another coming, when he will come in the clouds of heaven with power 
and great glory, and all the angels with him. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 15. abomination of desolation — referring evidently to 
some great desecration of the temple ; stand in the holy place — 
more naturally means the temple. " When ye see Jerusalem 
compassed with armies/' i. e. f in the beginning of the siege, 
Luke 21 : 20, adds ; whoso readeth — it is important for him to 
understand, as his safety will depend upon it, Dan. 9 : 27 and 
12 : 11. v. 16. flee into the mountains — for safety; we know 
from Eusebius that many Christians did this. v. 20. winter — 
on account of exposure to cold ; sabbath day — on account of 
difficulty of escape from closed gates &c, on that day. v. 21. 
tribulation — the sufferings of the Jews during the siege were 
fearful, v. 22. shortened — the siege lasted about five months; 
short in comparison with other sieges, v. 27. as the lightning* 
cometh — to such as attend the warning the sign is as plain 
as the lightning flash, v. 28. a proverbial expression. Like a 
corrupt dead body the Jewish people were ripe for destruction ; 
eagles — properly vultures, the result of the siege is predicted 
in Luke 21 : 24. v. 30. tribes of the earth mourn — all who 
are opposed to his reign; in the clouds — in clouds, Rev. Ver., 
on the clouds, Acts 1 : 9, 11. v. 31. angels — see Matt. 13 : 41- 
43, 49, 50 — his messengers; his elect — his true people; from 
the four winds — from all points of the compass, vs. 32, 33. as 
the budding of the fig tree is a sign of coming summer, so the 
above is a sign of the coming of the Son of man. v. 34. This 

generation — the most natural interpretation is the people then 
ving. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What did Jesus say in regard to the temple 
and its buildings? What four questions were asked him? 



SIGNS OF THE COMING END. 165 

How did lie answer ? What five things did he say should 
happen ? What did he say of the gospel ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. Signs on Earth. — What sign does Jesus give them in v. 

15? To what does he here refer? How is the sign 

given in Luke 21 : 20? Why important that they 

should understand it ? 
What should they then do? v. 16. Why flee to the 

mountains ? 
What is said for those on the housetop ? v. 17. What 

sort of roofs had they on their houses? 
What is said for him who was in the field ? v. 18. 
What should they pray for? v. 20. Why not in the 

winter? Or on the Sabbath? 
What is said of the sufferings of that time ? v. 21. What 

is said of this tribulation in Luke 21 : 24 ? What does 

history say of it? (See Josephus, Wars. Bks. VI, 

VII.)" 
What did Jesus say further about " those days " ? v. 22. 

What is here meant by " be saved " ? For whose sake 

were the days shortened? About how long was the 

siege? 
What should the deceivers say ? v. 23. Why say this ? 

How should the disciples act? What did he 'say of 

"false Christs"? 
And false prophets ? v. 24. What would be their object ? 
Why is this warning repeated ? v. 25. 
What false hopes would they excite ? v. 26. What by saying 

" he is in the desert " ? 
Why should they not believe such reports ? v. 27. What 

is the meaning of the illustration from the lightning ? 
What is implied in v. 28 ? How does it teach that the 

pillage and the destruction of the city was certainly to 

come? 

2. Signs in Heaven.— -What time is here spoken of? v. 29. 

How does Peter explain a similar prophecy in Acts 2 : 
17-21? Who alone can certainly interpret unfulfilled 
prophecy? What should happen after the " tribulation 
of those days" ? What do these words seem to teach ? 
What should appear after that? v. SO. Where? What 



166 people's lesson book. 

should this indicate ? Meaning of " tribes of the earth " ? 

How should they be affected by it ? How will the Son 

of man come? What is said in Dan. 7 : 13, 14? 
Whom shall he send out? v. 31. What shall they do? 

Who are meant by " his elect " ? Meaning of " from 

the four winds " ? 
What parable did Jesus give them? v. 32. 
What did the parable teach ? v. 33. 
When would these things come to pass ? v. 34. How was 

the above prediction fulfilled ? 
What is taught in v. 35 ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Sinners should flee at once to the only refuge. 

2. Delay leads to the ruin of many. 

3. Christ delivers his people in times of peril. 

4. "We need to beware of false teachers. 

5. Christ is King ; his cause shall finally triumph. 

6. Are we for Christ, or against him ? 



LESSON 64. [A.D.30. 

TIME OF THE END NOT REVEALED.— Matt. 24 : 36-51. 

MEMORY TEXT.— "Watch therefore ; for ye know not 
what hour your Lord doth come.— Matt. 24 : 42. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Time not 

Revealed. 

2. Watchfulness 
Required. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Time Unknown... Matt. 24 : 36-51. 

T. The Time Unexpected.2 Pet. 3 : 1-10. 

W. The Time Sudden Luke 17 : 26-37. 

Th. Be Heady 2 Pet. 3 : 11-18. 

K Be Faithful Heb. 6 : 9-15. 

Sat. Fidelity Rewarded Luke 12 : 32-44. 

S. Faithlessness Punish'dLuke 12 : 45-48. 



Time, Places and Persons.— See Lesson 62. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus tells the disciples that the last day 
will surely come, but when it will come no man can know. He further 
tells them that its coming will be sudden, and unlooked for, as was the 
flood in the days of Noah, or as the coming of a thief in the night. 
Our duty is to watch; to be faithful in duty as wise servants, and 
ready always to meet and welcome the Lord whenever he may come. 



TIME OF THE END NOT REVEALED. 167 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 36. that day — these words, as used here, uniformly re- 
fer to the day of judgment ; the day of the Lord, 2 Peter 3 : 10 ; 
knoweth Ho man — no one ; Rev. Yer. adds, " neither the Son," 
as in Mark 13 : 32 ; see John 14 : 28. vs. 37-39. coming of the 
Son of man — which will be sudden as in the days of the flood. 
v. 41. grinding at the mill — the small hand mill such as is still 
used in the East for preparing food. v. 42. Watch therefore — 
watch because the time of the Lord's coming is not known. . v. 
43. goodman of the house — master of the house ; broken up — 
literally digged through, v. 44. be ... also ready — in addi- 
tion to watchfulness, be prepared for the coming, v. 45. Who 
then is a faithful and wise servant ? — evidently, he who is 
ready and watching, v. 48. evil servant — because unfaithful : 
My lord delayeth his coming — unfaithfulness in duty springs 
from unbelief. Unbelief leads to the rioting and wickedness 
in v. 49. v. 51. cut him asunder — or cut him off; his portion 
with the hypocrites — cut off from God's people, and from God's 
presence. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What sign is given of the destruction of 
Jerusalem? What directions for safety? What repeated 
warning against deceivers? What is said of the sign in 
heaven ? What about the parable of the fig tree ? 

GIST THE LESSOR. 

1. Time not Revealed.— What day is spoken of in v. 36? 

What is it called in 2 Peter 3 : 10 ? What is said of it 

here ? How does this show the folly of such as try to 

fix the time ? 
What is further said of this coming? v. 37. 
How are the people before the flood described ? v. 38. 

Why did they thus live ? 
How did the flood come upon them ? v. 39. How many 

escaped the flood ? 
What is taught in vs. 40, 41 ? What is meant by grinding 

at the mill? 

2. Watchfulness Required. — What duty is required in v. 42? 
What are the reasons for watchfulness ? v. 43. What il- 
lustration is given of the necessity of watchfulness? 
What is meant by the " goodman of the house"? By 



168 people's eesson book. 

" broken up " ? In what sense is the Lord's coming like 

that of a thief? See 2 Peter 3 : 10. 
What duty is next enjoined ? v. 44. What is implied in 

being ready? 
Why should they be ready ? v. 45. To whom do these 

directions apply ? Luke 12 : 41 ; Mark 13 : 37. 
How is the one who is watchful described? v. 46. 
How will faithfulness be rewarded ? v. 47. 
What is said of an evil servant? v. 48. Who is 

meant by the evil servant? What does he think ? 
How does he act ? v. 49. Why thus think and act ? 
What is said of his lord's coming ? v. 50. 
What will he do to that servant ? v. 51. What is meant 

by "cut him asunder"? What will be his final doom? 

What is the final doom of the wicked ? How does this 

enforce the duty of watchfulness ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. "We need not try to find out what the Bible says 

cannot be known. 

2. Careless living shows a want of interest in religion. 

3. There will still be the good and the bad when the Son 

of man shall come. 

4. Our only safety is in being always ready. 

5. True piety is true wisdom. 

6. The Saviour's warning to us is, watch. 



WATCH I 

BE READY FOR THE LORD'S COMING. 



LESSON 65. [A. D.30. 

THE TEN VIRGINS.— Matt. 25 : 1-13. 

MEMORY VERSE— And while they went to buy, the 
bridegroom came ; and they that were ready went in with 
him to the marriage : and the door was shut.— Matt. 25 : 10. 



THE TEN VIRGINS. 169 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The 'Waiting. 

2. The Midnight 

Cry. 

3. The Door Shut. 



Home Headings. 

3f. The Ten Virgins Matt. 25 : 1-13. 

T. Long Delay 1 Peter 1 : 8-12. 

W, Asleep Matt, 26:86-45. 

Th. Midnight Cry 1 Thess. 4 : 13-18. 

F. The Door Shut Luke 13 : 24-30. 

S. Too Late Prov. 1 -.24-33. 

S. Watch Mark 13 ; 32-37. 



Time.— Tuesday, April 4, A. D. 30. 

Place.— Mount of Oliyes. 

Persons.— Jesus, Peter, James, John and Andrew. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— This parable of the ten virgins is de- 
signed to teach the duty of being always ready to meet the Lord when- 
ever he may come. Christ's followers are like these virgins : some of 
them prepared for his coming, having grace in their hearts ; others having 
only profession without grace. When Christ comes the difference is seen. 
Those who have grace are admitted to the marriage-feast— the heavenly 
state — while they who have it not, find out too late their folly, and are 
shut out. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 2. wise — in the sense of provident, 2 Peter 1 : 5-8 ; fool- 
ish — lacking in sense to provide for the future, 2 Peter 1:9. v. 3. 
lamps ... no oil — no grace, see also Matt. 13 : 5. v. 4. oil . . . 
with their lamps — true faith and grace and profession, v. 8. 
gone out — better, are going out. v. 9. lest there be not enough 
— the answer is elliptical, What if there be not enough? v. 10. 
while they went to buy — seeking too late ! they that were ready 
and they only ; the door was shut — as was the Oriental custom. 
v. 11. Afterward . . . the other virgins — the foolish ones ; they 
asked for mercy, v. 12. I know you not — do not recognize you 
as guests. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What does the reference to the days of Noah 
illustrate? What is said of the separations that will then 
take place? What duty is enjoined? What illustration is 
given of this? W T hat illustration, of the duty to be ready, 
from the example of the faithful and the unfaithful servant ? 

OK" THE LESSON. 
I. The Waiting. — To what is the kingdom of heaven here 
likened? v. 1. How is it like these ten virgins? 
Describe Eastern lamps. At what time of the day did 



170 



people's lesson book. 



Eastern marriages usually take place? Who is meant 

by the bridegroom here? Kev. 19 : 7, Eph. 5 : 32. 
What is said of these virgins ? v. 2. 
What did the foolish ones take? v. 3. What did they 

lack ? What do these represent ? 
What did the wise ones do ? v. 4. 
What is said of the bridegroom ? v. 5. What meantime 

did the virgins do ? 

2. The Midnight Cry. — What took place at midnight? v. 6. 

What does this midnight cry denote ? 

What did the virgins then do ? v. 7. 

What did the foolish ones then find out ? v. 8. What did 
they say to the wise ? 

What did they answer ? v. 9. Why could they not sup- 
ply them? What did they advise them to do? To 
whom alone can sinners go for grace ? 

3. The Door Shut.— What happened while they went to buy? 

v. 10. Who went with the bridegroom? What then 

was done? 
When the other virgins came what did they say? v. 11. 

What did their question imply ? Of what have we here 

the picture ? 
What answer was made to their request? v. 12. What 

is meant by, " I know you not " ? 
What does this parable teach? v. 13. If we are not 

ready when the Lord comes, what then ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. "We cannot know when the Lord will come. 

2. The folly of living unprepared for his coining. 

3. The truly pious are the truly wise. 

4. Fancied safety, without grace, is a delusion. 

5. One may be almost saved— and yet lost. 



WISE. 


FOOLISH. 


LAMPS-OIL 


LAMPS-NO OIL. 


GRACE. 


NO GRACE. 


THE DOOR SHUT. 


JOY WITHIN. I DESPAIR WITHOUT. 



THE TALESTS. 171 

LESSON 66. [A. D. 30. 

THE TALENTS.— Matt. 25 : 14-30. 

MEMORY VERSE —His lord said unto him, 'Well 
done, thou good and faithful servant ; thou hast been 
faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over 
many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.— Matt. 
25 : 21. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Talents 

Given. 

2. How Used. 



Home Readings. 

JT. The Talents Given Matt. 25 : 14-30. 

T. Talents Used Acts 20 : 17-26. 

W. The Reckoning Rom. 14 : 7-12. 

T. Fidelity Rewarded 2 Tim. 4 : 5-8. 

F. Excuses Tain Luke 14 : 46-24. 

S. TTnfaithfuln's Rebuk'd.Luke 19 : 20-26. 

S. Grace Increased John 15 : 1-11. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 65. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Lest the disciples should think from 
"what had been said that they only needed to watch and wait ; our Lord 
in this lesson teaches them that 'while waiting, they must work. The 
talents intrusted to them they must use. To each one was given accord- 
ing to his ability. Each one was to account for the use he made of the 
gift. The faithful servants were commended and rewarded. The un- 
faithful servant was condemned as slothful and wicked. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS, 

Verse 14. For ... as a man, the words the kingdom of 
heaven — are not found in the original text but supplied to 
make the meaning clear. The virgins were to be ready wait- 
ing; here the servants are to be working; servants — his slaves ; 
delivered . , . his goods — to be managed and used for him. 
v. 15. five . . . two . . . one . . . according to his several 
ability — the gifts differ, but are given to all on one principle ; 
hence it is a foundation for the reckoning afterwards, v. 19. 
long time — teaching that the coming of the Lord is not so near 
at hand as they might suppose, vs. 24, 25. hard man — one 
whom it was impossible to satisfy ; reaping . . . gathering — 
requiring what was unreasonable, v. 27. to the exchangers — the 
bankers, where it would be safe and also yield returns, v. 30. 
as not only slothful, but wicked also, he forfeits what he has, 
and is punished besides. 



172 people's lesson book. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — To what is the kingdom of heaven likened? 
What are the principal points of the parable ? How does it 
show the folly of living without true grace ? What impor- 
tant lesson was the parable designed to teach ? 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Talents Given. — To what is the kingdom of heaven 

likened in v. 14.? How does this parable differ from 
the last? Whom does this man represent? Where was 
he going? Who were called to him? What did he 
give them ? On what principle was this done ? What 
is meant by " his several ability " ? 

How much was given to each one ? v. 15. 

What is said of the one with five talents? v. 16. Mean- 
ing of trading with the same ? 

What is said of the second one ? v. 17. 

What did the third one do? v. 18. What should he 
have done? 

2. How Used.— What afterwards took place? v. 19. What is 

said as to the time of it ? What may be inferred from 

this? What is meant by "reckoneth" with them? 
What did the first one bring and what did he say ? v. 20. 

How had he gained the other five talents ? What did 

his lord say to him ? 
What did the lord promise him ? v. 21. What is meant 

by "the joy of thy lord"? 
How did the conduct of the second compare with that of 

the first? v. 22. 
What of his reward? v. 23. On what principle were 

they treated alike ? 
What did the man with one talent say? v. 24. What 

did he mean by " hard man " ? By " reaping where 

thou hast not sown," &c. ? 
Of what was he afraid ? v. 25. What was the character 

of this speech ? What does it show ? 
What was the lord's answer? v. 26. How does this an- 
swer prove the servant's slothfulness ? 
If really afraid what ought he to have done ? v. 27. Who 

were " exchangers " ? What is meant by usury ? 



THE LAST JUDGMENT. 173 

What did the lord order to be done ? v. 28. What reason 
was given for this ? 

What general truth is expressed in v. 29 ? 

W T hat then was to he done with this man? v. 30. What 
does this imply as to his conduct? What as to his pun- 
ishment ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. All that we have, God has given us. 

2. The Saviour says to us also, " Occupy till I come." 

3. Our earnest inquiry should be, Lord what wilt thou 

have me to do? 

4. The talents given furnish the measure of our duty. 

5. The reward is in proportion to fidelity, not in propor- 

tion to the talents bestowed. 

6. The man with one talent is as much bound to improve 

his one, as another man his five. 



AVOEK FOE ALL. 

ARE MY TALENTS 

IMPROVED cm HIDDEN? 



LESSON 67. [A.D.30. 

THE LAST JUDGMENT.— Matt. 25 : 31-46. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Final Sepa- 

ration. 

2. The Righteous. 

3. The "Wicked. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Judgment Matt. 25 : 31-46. 

T. The Separation Ezek. 34 : 17-24. 

W, The Righteous Blessed.Matt. 5 : 3-12. 

Th. Their Beward Luke22 : 25-30. 

F. Their PietY Approved. James 1 : 22-27. 

Sat. The Wick'd Cond'mn'd.Matt. 7 : 21-29. 

S. Everlasting Punishm't.2 Thess. 1: 1-10. 



174 people's lesson book. 

MEMOEY VERSE.— And these shall go away into 
everlasting punishment ; but the righteous into life eter- 
nal—Matt. 25 : 46. 

Time, Places and Persons.— See Lesson 65. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Jesus will come to judge the world. All 
must appear before him. The final separation of the righteous and the 
wicked will then take place. Each one will receive his reward according 
to his life and conduct. To them that have loved and served the Lord 
he will say, " Come ye blessed." To the disobedient and unfaithful he 
will say, "Depart from me,"— and these shall go away into everlasting 
punishment. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS, 

Verse 32. all nations — the whole human race, 2 Cor. 5 : 10 ; 
Kev. 20 : 12, 13; separate them — not as nations, but as individ- 
uals; according to their character, v. 33. sheep — a common 
term for Christ's own people, John 10 : 11-16 ; 21 : 15-17. v. 
34. inherit — possess as heirs; this excludes their own merit, 
v. 40. Inasmuch as — Christ regards what is done to his people, 
out of love to him, as done to himself, Matt. 10 : 40; Acts 9 : 4. 
v. 41. everlasting fire, prepared — they have allied themselves 
with the devil and his angels, v. 45.* Inasmuch as — the same 
principle as before. They had not done it to Christ's disciples. 
v. 46. everlasting punishment . . . life eternal — endless ruin 
— endless bliss, both terms indicate the same duration. But 
what mind can fathom their meaning ? 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What is the parable of the man and his ser- 
vants intended to teach ? On what principle was the money 
given to these servants ? And how much to each one ? How 
had they used the money ? How were the faithful rewarded ? 
What excuses did the slothful one make ? What was done to 
him ? What general law is given in v. 29 ? 

OK" THE LESSON. 
I. The Final Separation. — How will Christ come? v. 31. 
Who will come with him ? Upon what shall he sit ? 
How will he be seated there ? 
Who shall appear before him? v. 32. And for what? 
How will he separate them? What reason will there 
be for such separation ? Who are meant by " sheep " ? 
By "the goats"? 
Where will each be placed ? v. 33. 




THE LAST JUDGMENT. 175 

2. The Righteous. — What will he say to them on his right 

hand ? V. 34. What are they called ? How are they 

the blessed of the Father? What do they inherit? 

Give the meaning of this. What does this imply as to 

their merit ? By whom had it been prepared ? What 

proof is given of their fitness for this inheritance ? 
What good deeds are mentioned ? vs. 

35, 36. 
What answer do thev make ? vs. 37, 

38, 39. What spirit does it show ? 
How did the King answer? v. 40. 

How does Christ regard kindness 

shown to his people ? And on what 

principle does he so regard it ? 4k 

3. The Wicked. — What does Christ say gJ| 

to the wicked? v. 41. What con- 
trast is expressed here ? 

How does he describe them ? vs. 42, 43. How pronounce 
their doom? For whom had this been prepared? How 
did they come to share in it ? Who are meant by the 
"devil and his angels" ? What reason is given for this 
sentence ? And what does this show ? 
What do they answer ? v. 44. What works do they claim ? 
What is it they do not even then see ? 

What is Christ s answer to them ? v. 45. How does this 
answer their objection ? 

What are the two rewards ? v. 46. What their duration ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. The judgment day is not a mere fancy, but a dreadful 

reality. 

2. That final test none can escape. 

3. The rule of judgment : "according to the deeds done 

in the body." 

4. The Saviour who now says, "Come to me,". is the 

Judge who will then say to the wicked, " Depart." 

5. Come now to Jesus and be his friend. 



y r J r J r J ' r l [ J r l r J^: rrr r r .w rJ HH r '^r'rr J ^ r'^HH^r'P^r' , ?f 



WILL CHBIST SAY TO ME, Ijj 

"COME" or "DEPART"? g 



176 people's lesson book. 

LESSOR 68. [A. D. 30. 

THE CONSPIRACY, AND ANOINTING AT BETHANY. 

Matt. 26 : 1-16. 

MEMORY VERSE— Verily I say unto you, Whereso- 
ever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, 
there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told 
for a memorial of her.— Matt. 26 : 13. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Conspiracy. 

2. The Anointing. 

3. Treachery of 

Judas. 



Home Readings. 

M. The Conspiracy Matt. 26 : 1-16. 

T. The Passover Ex. 12 : 3-17. 

W. Another Anointing Luke 7 : 36-50. 

Th. Her Act Misunderst'd.Mark 14 : 3-8, 

F. The Poor Deut. 15 : 7-11. 

Sat. Perpetual Memorial.... Ex. 17 : 8-14. 
S. Betrayal Foretold Zech. 11 : 10-14. 



Time.— Saturday, April 1, and Wednesday, April 5, A. D. 30. 

Places. — Bethany, Jerusalem. 

Persons. — Jesus, chief priests, Judas and disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— The chief priests and the scribes had for 
a long time been open enemies of Jesus. Now they came together at the 
high priest's palace to agree upon some plan by which they might put 
him to death. Jesus had a supper in Bethany. While at supper, a 
woman came and anointed him with a very costly kind of perfume. 
Some of the disciples objected to such waste; but the Lord approved it; 
and said that this should be told of the woman for a memorial of her 
everywhere. Judas went to the chief priests, and agreed to betray Jesus 
for thirty pieces of silver, 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 1. these sayings — those recorded in the two preceding 
chapters, v. 2. after two days — the day after the next day; 

is betrayed fortells his betrayal as if now taking place, v. 

4. by subtility — by some deceitful snare, v. 5. Siot on the 
feast day — or during the seven days of the feast; lest there be 
an uproar — Jesus was regarded by tli£ people as a prophet, v. 
6. Bethany — a village about two miles east of Jerusalem; 
Simon the leper — one probably who had been cured of leprosy. 
v. 7. a woman — Mary the sister of Martha and Lazarus, see 
John 12 : 3. The accounts given in John, and Mark 14 : 3-9, 



THE CONSPIRACY, A2H> ANOINTING AT BETHANY. 177 

and here refer to the same anointing ; the anointing in Luke 7 : 
37-50, was at a different time, and place, and by another per- 
son; alabaster box — or flask, v. 8. his disciples — some of 
them : Jndas appears to be the one who spoke out, John 12 : 4. 
y. 9. sold for much — 300 pence, 45 to 50 dollars, see John 12 : 
6. y. 14. Judas . . . chief priests — Judas resolyes to sell his 
Master, y. 15. covenanted — made an agreement; thirty 
pieces of silver — probably shekels ; from 15 to 20 dollars; the 
price of a slave, Ei. 21 : 32. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What will take place when the Son of man 
shall come ? Who shall appear before him ? What separa- 
tion will then be made? What will the king say to the 
righteous? How had they done it unto him? What will 
the King say to the wicked ? How had they not done it unto 
him ? Final reward of each ? 

Oltf THE LESSON. 

I. The Conspiracy. — What sayings are referred to in v. 1? 
What did Jesus say to his disciples ? v. 2. What did the 

f>assover commemorate? How long did the festival 
ast? What did he say of himself? What did he mean 
by this? 
Who came together at this time? v. 3. Where? Who 
was the acting high priest ? 
e ?\K|*4^ What was the object of their meet- 

ing? v. 4. How did they plan to 
take Jesus? 
What did they think an unsuitable 
time? v. 5. And why? How 
was Jesus regarded by the people ? 
o n C^5j3^ n -£ 2. The Anointing. — Where was Jesus 

"« Pence **§** at this time? v * 6 - At whose 

house? Why is he called the leper ? 

Where was Bethany? 
What took place while Jesus was at supper ? v. 7. Who 

was the woman? What is said of this ointment? 
What did the disciples think of this ? v. 8. 
What did they say? v. 9. What was the ointment worth ? 
What did Jesus say? v. 10. How did he regard her act? 







178 people's lesson book. 

What did he further say ? v. 11. What did he mean by 
saying "the poor always with you"? What by "me 
. . . not always " ? 

What had she done this for? v. 12f. 

What should be told of her? v. 13. And where? A 
memorial of what ? 

3. Treachery of Judas. — Where did Judas go about this 
time? v. 14. To whom did he go? Where did he 
meet them? For what purpose did he go ? 

What did he agree to do ? v. 15. What did they agree to 
give him? What proof is there that the money was 
actually paid him ? See Matt. 27 : 3. Of what was 
this the common price ? 

What did Judas from that time do? v. 16. How long 
did he remain with the disciples ? How does this show 
that he acted from deliberate purpose and not under 
sudden temptation ? 

What does this lesson teach as to the character of Judas ? 



PKACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. "We may still show our love to Christ in our hospital- 

ity. 

2. Happy is the family where Jesus is a guest. 

3. Christ approves of what is done from love to him. 

4. "We ought to be charitable. 

5. That men prove false need not surprise us— one of the 

twelve apostles was a traitor. 

6. "Wickedness in the heart will discover itself. 



AT JERUSALEM. 


AT BETHANV. 


THE CONSPIRACY. 


THE SUPPER. 


THE TREACHERY. 


THE PRECIOUS OINTMENT. 


THIRTY PIECES OF SILVER. 


THE MEMORIAL. 



THE LOUIES STOPPER. 



179 



LESSON 69. 



[A. D. 30. 



• THE LORD'S SUPPER.— Matt. 26 : 17-35. 

MEMOSY TEXT.-And as they were eating, Jesus 
took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the 
disciples, and said, Take, eat ; this is my body. And he 
took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, say- 
ing, Drink ye all of it ; For this is my blood of the new 
testament, which is shed for many for the remission of 
sins.— Matt. 26 : 26-28. 



, 1 

LESSON OUTLINE. 
1. The Last Pass- 


» — 

M, 
T. 

W. 

Th. 

F. 

Sat. 

S. 


— e 

Home Headings. 

The Supper Matt. 26 : 17-35. 

The Traitor John 6 : 64-71; 


over. 

2. The Betrayer. 

3. The Lord's Sup- 


Sufferings Foretold....Isa. 53 : 4-12. 
The Xew Covenant... Jer. 31 : 31-34. 
My Father's Kf gdoni.Rev. 19 : 5-9. 

Sheep Scattered Zech. 13 : 7-9. 

Self Confidence James 4 : 13-17. 


per. 





Time.— Thursday, April 6, A. D. 30. 

Place.— Jerusalem. 

Persons. — Jesus, the twelve. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus told Peter and John to go into 
Jerusalem to prepare for the passover. They should meet a man carry- 
ing a pitcher of vrater and say, At thy house we will keep the passover. 
They found it as Jesus had said, and in a large upper room which the 
man showed them they made ready the passover. Jesus and the other 
disciples came in the evening, and while they were eating, Jesus told 
them that he would be betrayed, and intimated that Judas was the 
traitor. After the passover Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper. Then 
they went out to the mount of Olives. Jesus had said that Peter would 
deny him, and that they all would forsake him. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 17. first day — this passover feast lasted seven days, 
v. 18. to such a man — he gave them a sign by which they could 
know him, see Luke 22 : 10. v. 21. as they did eat — while eat- 
ing; betray — deliver me up. vs. 22-25. sorrowful — John 13 : 
22, says, they looked one on another doubting of whom he spake. 
They 'asked, Lord, is it I ? — or rather, as in Rev. Yer., Is it I, 
Lord ? Judas at the last, to avoid suspicion asked the same, 
but changed the form, Is it I, Rabbi? or teacher; Thou hast 
said — It is you — Before this he had answered to the others He 



180 people's lesson book. 

that dippeth , . . with me — John 13 : 26 says he dipped the sop i. e. 
a piece of bread and gave it to Judas, v. 27. the cup — of wine 
then on the table, v. 28. my blood — represents my blo'od ; of 
the new testament — or covenant, v. 30. sung a hymn — Ps. 
115-118, sung at the passover, see on this whole account, 1 Cor. 
11 : 23-34. v. 31. be offended — caused to stumble; smite the 
Shepherd — Zech 13 : 7. v. 32. after I am risen — the triumph 
of his enemies would be short, v. 34. deny me — Luke 22 : 34, 
deny that thou knowest me. 

QUESTIONS. 
For Review. — Who held a consultation in Jerusalem? 
What did they wish to do ? What took place at the house 
of Simon the leper in Bethany ? Describe the treachery of 
Judas. 

OlST THE LESSOIST. 

i. The Last Passover. — What feast is mentioned in v. 17? 
How long did the passover festival last ? What did the 
disciples ask Jesus ? Why was the passover called the 
feast of unleavened bread ? 
What did Jesus tell the disciples ? v. 18. Whom did he 
send ? Luke 22 : 8. How should they know where to 
go ? What were they then to say ? 
What did the disciples do ? v. 19. 

What did Jesus do in the even ? v. 20. At what time 
was the passover to be eaten ? 
2. The Betrayer. — What did Jesus say while they were 
eating? v. 21. What did he mean by betray? 
How did this affect the disciples? v. 22. Why were they 
so sorrowful? What does John 
say they did ? John 13:18. What 
Of did each one ask him ? 

How did he answer them? v. 23. 
By what sign *did he point out the 
traitor to them ? 
What did he say of himself? v. 24. 
What did he say of the traitor? 
What did Jesus say to Judas? 
John 13 : 27. 
What did Judas ask him? v. 25. 
Why did he ask? What did Jesus answer Judas? 
The Lord's Supper. — When was the Lord's supper insti- 







IN GETHSEMANE. 



181 



When should that be 



v. 30. Where 



tuted ? v. 26. What did Jesus first do ? To whom did 

he give the bread ? What did he tell them to do ? What 

did he say the bread represented ? 
What did he do with the cup? v. 27. What did he 

mean by this ? 
What did he say this was? v. 28. 

fulfilled ? 
What would he not do ? v. 29. 
What was done at the end of the supper? 

did they go ? 
Who would be offended? v. 31. In whom? What 

prophecy should be fulfilled? Zech. 13 : 7. 
What did he promise them ? v. 32. 
What did Peter say to this? v. 33. 
What did Jesus say to him? v. 34. When should he 

deny him ? How many times ? 
How did Peter answer this ? v. 35. What did others say ? 

PBACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Jesus fulfilled all righteousness— all the law. 

2. No wickedness in the heart, but Jesus knows it. 

3. We do well to examine ourselves— Is it I ? 

4. "We may still have communion with the Saviour in 

_ the Lord's Supper. 

5. "We see here the sure pledge of the covenant of grace. 

6. "We need to pray lead us not into temptation. 

7. "We need to be humble, rather than self-confident. 



LESSON 70. [A. D. 30. 

IN GETHSEMANE.— Matt. 26 : 36-56. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Agony. 

2. Sleeping Disci- 

ples. 

3. The Arrest. 



Home Headings. 

M. Sorrows of Jesus Matt, 25 : 36-56. 

T. The Bitter Cup Ps. 22 : 1-8. 

W. Watch and Pray Eph. 6 : 13-20. 

Th. Sleeping Disciples Luke 9 : 28-36. 

F. Midnight Mob Luke 22 : 47-53. 

SaL Treachery Ps. 55 : 1-15. 

S. Jesus gave himself up. John 10 : 14-18. 



182 people's lesson book. 

MEMOEY VERSE.— And he went a little further, and 
fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be 
possible, let this cup pass from me : nevertheless, not as I 
will, but as thou wilt.— Matt. 26 : 39. 

Time.— Thursday night, April 6, A. D. 30. 

Place. — Gethsemane near Jerusalem. 

Persons.— Jesus, the eleven, Judas, chief priests, officers, multitude. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus often went to the garden of Geth- 
semane. - He went there after he had instituted the Lord's Supper. He 
selected the three disciples who had seen his glory on the Mount of 
Transfiguration, and going a little way from them, fell on his face in his 
agony, and prayed that if possible he might be spared the sorrow com- 
ing upon him. Three times he thus prayed ; and after each prayer he 
came to the disciples and found them sleeping. Presently Judas 'came, 
and a great crowd of people with him, and they took Jesus, and led him 
away. Then all the disciples forsook him and fled. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 36. Gethsemane — means oil press ; a place across the 
brook Kedron, on the lower slope of the mount of Olives, v. 
40. saith unto Peter, What, in a tone of grief, you who just 
now said that you would die for me, could you not watch one 
hour? v. 45. Sleep on now — implying that the agony was 
over— the victory won. v. 47. while he yet spake — or was 
speaking, Judas — as guide, v. 50. Friend — for other particu- 
lars of the arrest, see John 18 : 4-9. v. 51. one of them — Peter. 
The servant's name was Malchus. John 18 : 10. v. 53. twelve 
legions of angels — with all the heavenly hosts at his command 
this mob would be as nothing. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — What directions did Jesus give in regard to 
the passover ? How did he point out the traitor ? How and 
when was the Lord's Supper instituted? What did he say 
to the disciples after they had gone out from the Supper ? 
What did Peter and the rest say? 

ON THE LESSON . 

I. The Agony. — Where did Jesus go with his disciples ? v. 
36. Where was Gethsemane? What did he say to 
them ? 
Whom did he take with him ? v. 37. Where else had 
these three only been with him ? Matt. 17 : 1-6. 



IN GETHSEMANE. 183 

What did he say about himself? v. 38. What made him 
so sorrowful? What did he tell these disciples to do ? 

What did Jesus then do? v. 39. W T hat was his prayer? 
How does Luke express it ? Luke 22 : 42. What does 
the conclusion of his prayer express ? 

2. Sleeping Disciples. — How* did he find the disciples? v. 

40. What does this question to Peter imply ? 
What does he tell them to do? v. 41. What is implied 

in the words the spirit is willing, but the flesh weak ? 
What was the second prayer ? v. 42. What does Luke 

say of his agony ? Luke 22 : 44. 
How did he find the three disciples a second time ? v. 43. 
W T hat was the third prayer ? v. 44. 
What did he say ? v. 45. What is implied in the words 

" sleep on now " ? W r ho is betrayed ? Who is the Son 

of man? 

3. The Arrest. — Who was at hand as the praying ended? v. 

46. 
Who were with him? v. 47. 
What sign had Judas given the officers? v. 48. 
How did Judas salute Jesus ? v. 49. Of what was the 

kiss a sign ? 
What reproof did Jesus make to Judas ? v. 50. W r hat 

did the officers then do ? 
How did one of the disciples try to defend the Master ? v. 51. 
What did Jesus say to him ? v. 52. 
W T hat shows that Jesus gave himself up ? v. 53. 
Why did he do so ? v. 54. 
What did he ask the mob ? v. 55. What did he assert in 

this? 
W r hy was all this done ? v. 56. What Scriptures ? See 

Lam. 4 : 7-20. What did his disciples do ? How were 

they saved from arrest. 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Jesus suffered for man's sins. 

2. The Saviour can be touched with the feeling of our 

infirmities. 

3. All prayer should be with submission to the Father's 

will. 

4. Jesus could not save himself, if he saved us. 

5. Knowing all the cost, he freely gave himself up, be- 

cause of his love for us. 



184 



people's lesson book. 



LESSON 71. [A. D. 30. 

JESUS BEFORE CAIAPHAS.— Matt. 26 : 57-68. 

MEMOEY VERSE— Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast 
said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye 
see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, 
and coming in the clouds of heaven.— Matt. 26 : 64. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Trial. 

2. Jesus Condemn- 

ed. 



Home Readings. 

M. Before Caiaphas Matt. 26 : 57-68. 

T. The Trial Luke 22 : 66-71. 

W. Jesus Questioned John 18 : 19-24. 

Th.. False Witness Acts 6 : 8-15. 

F. Jesus Silent Acts 8 : 26-35. 

Sat. Jesus Condemned Acts 3 : 13-18. 

S. Jesus Smitten Isa. 53 : 1-6. 



Time. — Friday morning, April 7, A. D. 30. 

Place. — Palace of Caiaphas, in Jerusalem. 

Persons.— Jesus, Caiaphas, Peter, Jewish council, soldiers, witnesses. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — The arrest of Jesus took place, probably, 
about midnight. He was taken first to Annas, formerly high priest, 
then sent bound unto Caiaphas, the acting high priest. He was called 
before the council. They sought false witness against him. They found 
many witnesses, yet their testimony did not agree. Failing in this, the 
high priest questioned Jesus, and finally put him upon oath. Being thus 
adjured, Jesus answered; and the high priest said he has spoken blas- 
phemy, we need no other witness. So they declared him guilty of death. 
Then they mocked and smote him and spit in his face. 



LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 57. to Caiaphas — John 18 : 24, says Annas sent him to 
Caiaphas. v. 58. the . . . palace — Rev. Ver., the court; ser- 
vants — or officers, v. 59. sought false witness — as they had 
met to condemn him they must make a show of a trial, v. 60. 
came two — the law required two to convict, v. 61. And said — 
their testimony was false because they put a false meaning upon 
the words, John 2 : 19-21. v. 63. I adjure thee — putting him 
upon oath to answer, see Ex. 22 : 11 ; Josh. 7 : 19. v. 64. Thou 
hast said — equivalent to, I am. v. 65. blasphemy — it would 
have been blasphemy if Jesus had been an impostor. 



JESUS BEFORE CAIAPHAS. 



185 



QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Who were with Jesus in the garden ? What 
is said of the Saviour's agony ? What did he pray ? What 
did he say to the sleeping disciples ? Describe the arrest. 
What shows that Jesus gave himself up voluntarily. 



ON THE LESSOST. 

1. The Trial. — Before whom was Jesus taken ? v. 57. What 

office did Caiaphas hold? Who were assembled there? 
What is said of Peter ? v. 58. Among whom did he sit 

at the palace ? What did he wish to see ? 
What did the council seek for ? v. 59. 

Why did they seek for false witnesses ? 
What was the result of their seeking? 

v. 60. What is said of the number 

who came ? Who came at last ? 
What was their testimony? v. 61. How 

was this false testimony ? See John 2 : 

19. 
W T hat did the high priest then ask Jesus? 

v. 62. What scripture was fulfilled by 

his silence? 
W T hat did the high priest then say ? v. , 

63. W T hat is the meaning of " I adjure * 

thee,"&c? 
What answer did Jesus make ? v. 64. 

What did he further say? What do' 

these words assert? What power, and 

what coming are meant ? ^S 11 driest. 

2, iesus Condemned.— What did the high priest then do? 

v. 65. What did this mean to express? What did he 
say? Why need no more witnesses? How can you 
show that this was not blasphemy ? When would such 
words have been blasphemy ? 

What sentence AYas pronounced ? v. 66. 

What did they then do to Jesus ? v. 67. 

How did they mock him? v. 68. What do all these acts 
indicate ? How did Jesus endure all this ? 1 Peter 2 ; 
23. 




186 



PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK. 



PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. What a mockery of a trial was this ! 

2. "We also may wrest Christ's words to our ruin.— 2 Peter 

3 : 16. 

3. The meek and lowly Jesus is an example for us. 

4. Christ who was condemned here will be the Judge 

hereafter. 

5. The triumph of the wicked will be short. 

TOPICS FOR WRITTEN REPORTS. 

1. Write an account of the Sanhedrin, as the supreme court of the 
Jews. 

2. Write an account of the Jewish trial of Jesus in your own words. 



LESSON 72. [A. X>. 30. 

PETER'S DENIAL AND JUDAS' DEATH. 

Matt, 26 : 69-75 : 27 : 3-10. 

MEMORY VERSE— And Peter remembered the word 
of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou 
shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bit- 
terly— Matt. 26 ; 75. 



© 



e- 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Peter's Denial. 

2. Death of Judas. 

3. Potter's Field. 



Home Readings. 

M . Peter's Fall Matt. 26 : 69 to 27 : 10. 

T. Peter Warned Luke 22 : 31-37. 

W. Peter Tempted John 18 : 15-27. 

Th. Peter Restored John 21 : 15-19. 

F. True & False Repent'e.2 Cor. 7 : 6-10. 

Sat. Death of Judas Acts 1 : 15-25. 

S . The Field of Blood Matt. 27 : 6-10. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 71. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— When Jesus was taken, Peter followed 
nim afar off and went into the court of the high priest's house. Here 
his courage failed and through weakness and fear he three times denied 
his Lord. Then the Lord turned and looked upon Peter and this look, 
and the crowing of the cock reminded him of what Jesus had told him. 
Then he went out and wept bitterly. Judas also saw his sin ; returned 
the money to the heartless priests, and in despair, went out and hanged 
himself. With the money for which he had betrayed his Master they 
bought a field for a burial place. 



peter's denial, and judas' death. 187 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Terse 69. without— outer court, or space ; damsel — one who 
kept the door, John 18 : 17. v. 71. another . . . saw him — 
this charge seems to have been made by several; and annoyed 
by it he denied with an oath. v. 73. speech bewrayeth — his 
Galilean accent showed it. v. 74. curse and to swear — lost all 
control of his temper and himself in his denial, v. 75. thrice 
— three times ; Luke 22 : 61, adds the Lord turned and looked 
upon Peter ; went out and wept — in true repentance. 27 : 3. 
when he saw . . . repented himself — it was remorse rather 
than true resentence; brought again — shows that the money 
had been paid, and also the power of a guilty conscience, v. 
5. cast down — the reply deepened his remorse ; in the temple 
—the holy place; hanged himself — see Acts 1 : 18. v. 6. not 
lawful — hypocritical priests, how scrupulous now; price of 
blood — and hence defiled, v, 7. potter's field — supposed to be 
south of the valley of Hinnom, on the slope of the opposite 
hill. v. 9. spoken by Jeremy — or Jeremiah, found in Zech. 
11 : 12, 13. Probably the reference is to the book of the pro- 
phets, to which Jeremiah, as being the first in it, gave the name. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Before whom was Jesus taken? What was 
the charge against him here? How did they try to prove 
that charge ? How at last did they get the desired proof? 
What was the sentence pronounced ? How was Jesus then 
treated ? 

OK THE LESSON. 

I. Peter's Denial.— Where was Peter now sitting? v. 69. 
How was he " without " in the palace ? Who came to 
him ? What was her place there ? What did she say 
to Peter ? 

What did Peter answer ? v. 70. 

Where did he go after this? v. 71. What was said 
there ? And by whom ? 

What effect had" this upon Peter? v. 72. What did he 
again do ? 

What happened a while after ? v. 73. How long after- 
wards ? Luke 22 : 59. Who are meant by those that 
stood by? What did they mean by "one of them"? 
What by thy speech " bewrayeth thee " ? 



188 



people's lesson book. 



What did Peter answer ? v. 74. What then took place ? 

What does Luke add here ? 
What did Peter then remember ? v. 75. What is said of 

the effect on Peter ? What does this show ? 

2. Death of Judas. — What effect did the condemnation of 

Jesus have upon Judas ? v. 3. What sort of repentance 
was his ? What shows that he had received the price of 
his treachery ? To whom did he take the money ? 

What did he say ? v. 4. What does this confession show? 
How did the priests answer him ? What is implied in 
this answer ? 

What did lie then do with the money ? v. 5. What be- 
came of him ? 

3. Potter's Field. — What did the chief priests say about that 

money ? v. 6. How does this show their hypocrisy ? 

Why was it not lawful to put it into the treasury? 
What did they decide to do with it? v. 7. What use 

would they make of that field ? What was it called ? 
And why? v. 8. 
What prophecy was thus fulfilled ? vs. 9, 10. Where is 

it found ? How explain this reference ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Self-confident Peter went in the way of temptation 

and fell— a warning to us. 

2. The greatest sins, if repented of, are forgiven. 

3. Bemorse often drives men to despair ; true repen- 

tance never. 

4. Companions in guilt are poor comforters. 

5. God's "Word will certainly be fulfilled. 



JUDAS 


PETER 


Sold Jesus. 


Denied Jesus. 


Had Remorse, but 


Repented, and 


Hanged Himself. 


Forsook his Sin. 


LOST. 


SAVED. 



JESUS BEFORE PLLATE. 189 

LESSON 73. [A. D. 30. 

JESUS BEFORE PILATE.— Matt. 27 : I, 2, li-28. 

MEMORY "VERSE— And Jesus stood before the gov- 
ernor : and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the 
King of the Jews ? And Jesus said unto him, Thou say- 
est.— Matt. 27 : 11. 

> * © 

LESSON OUTLINE. I Home Readings. 

1. The Council. M. Before Pilate Matt. 27 : 1, 2, 11-28. 

« m - ■. t» ^ t,. ! T. The Council Meeting-Acts 4 : 23-28. 

2. Trial Before Pi- ; Tr> ^o King but Ccesar John 19 : 12-15. 

l«t.p ■ 2%* Jesus or Barabbas Acts 3: 13-18. 

jK ThatJustMan ....1 Peter 2 : 21-25. 

3. Condemned by I S. Pilate Washing Deut. 21 : 1-9. 

^., I S. His Blood on Us 1 Kings 2 : 2S-34. 

Pilate. 



Time.— Friday, April 7, A. D. 30. 

Place.— Pilate's court, Jerusalem. 

Persons. — Jesus, Pilate, chief priests, Barabbas, Pilate's wife, soldiers, 
people. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Early in the morning, a full meeting of the 
council was held to determine how the sentence upon Jesus could be carried 
out. The Jewish council had no power to put any one to death. They de- 
termine, therefore, to send him to the Roman governor, on the charge of 
treason ; that is, of making himself a king as a rival of Caesar. Pilate 
soon discovers that the charge is frivolous, and that for envy they had 
brought him to trial. The mob demand that Barabbas be released, and 
that Jesus be crucified. Pilate tries to pacify them, but in vain : and the 
mob becoming more furious, he finally yields to thair clamor; and after 
Jesus had been scourged, he gives him up to be crucified. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS, 

Verse 2. Pontius Pilate — the Roman governor of Judaea from 
A.D. 26 to 36. v. 11. stood before the governor — describes his 
formal arraignment for trial, v. 14. governor marvelled — 
wondered at his silence. Pilate said, I find in him no fault at all, 
John 18 : 38. v. 15. that feast— the passover; wont to release 
— this was the custom ; when or how it originated is not known. 
v. 16. notable prisoner — a robber, John 18 : 40, guilty of se- 
dition and murder, Luke 23 : 19. v. 21. Whether of the twain] 
—which of the two ? v. 22. What shall I do then with Jesus ? 
— their answer was conclusive as to Barabbas ; but the question 



190 people's lesson book. 

yet remained as to Jesus ; crucified—death by the cross, Roman 
mode of punishment, and designed only for traitors and slaves, 
v. 24. washed his hands — a symbolical act ; for its meaning see 
Deut. 21 : 5-7. v. 28. scarlet robe — as a mark of royalty — in 
mockery. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review.— How many times and in what ways did 
Peter deny his Lord? How was he made to see his sin? 
What is said of the remorse of Judas? What was done 
with the price of blood ? How was the scriptures fulfilled by 
this transaction ? 

OK THE LSSSOKT. 

1. The Council. — Who took counsel against Jesus in the 

morning? v. 1. What difficulty was in the way of 
executing their sentence ? 
What did they finally do ? v. 2. Who was Pilate ? What 
power had he? 

2. Trial Before Pilate. — Before whom was Jesus brought? 

v. 11. What was now the charge against Jesus? How 

did he answer Pilate's question ? How did he explain 

its meaning to Pilate? See John 18 : 37. 
What did his accusers do ? v. 12. How did Jesus treat 

their accusations? 
What did his conduct lead Pilate to ask ? v. 13. 
What was Pilate's feeling in respect to this silence of Jesus? 

y. 14. 

3. Condemned by Pilate. — What custom is spoken of in v. 

15? 
What prisoner was then in custody? v. 16. Of what 

crime had he been guilty ? John 18 : 40. 
What choice did Pilate give them ? v. 17. Why did he 

now offer them that choice ? 
For what reason had they delivered up Jesus? v. 18. 

What was the judgment seat ? 
What message did his wife send him? v. 19. Why did 

she send it. 
Who persuaded the people what choice to make? v. 20. 
What question did Pilate then ask ? v. 21 . What was 

their answer? 



THE CBUCIFIX10N. 



191 



How did this choice affect Pilate? v. 22. What did he 

then ask them ? What did they all answer ? 
What did Pilate next ask? v. 23. W T hat is implied in 

the question, What evil hath he done ? How did they 

answer Pilate ? 
How did Pilate try to escape the guilt of condemning 

Jesus ? v. 24. What did this washing of his hands signi- 

fy ? 

What did they answer ? v. 25. How has it been fulfilled ? 
Whom did Pilate then release? v. 26. What was done 

to Jesus ? 
After this what was done with Jesus? v. 27. Who took 

charge of him? 
How did they treat him ? v. 28. 

PBACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. The spirit of these priests and elders is still in the 

world. 

2. One day the cry is, Hosanna ; another, Crucify Jesus. 

3. Washing hands will not wash away guilt ! 

4. Jesus was despised and rejected both by Jews and 

Gentiles. 

5. The Jews did not know what they did. 



LESSON 74. [A.D. 30. 

THE CRUCIFIXION.— Matt. 27 : 29-50. 

MEMORY VERSE.— And set up over his head his ac- 
cusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF 
THE JEWS— Matt. 27 : 37. 



©- 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. Soldier's Mock- 

ing. 

2. The Crucifixion. 

3. Darkness and 

Death. 



Home Readings. 

M. Crucified Matt. 27 : 29-50. 

T. Parting His Garments. John 19 : 23, 24. 

W. The Superscription John 19 : 17-22. 

Th. The Revilings Ps. 22 : 4-23. 

F. The Thieves Luke 23: 39-43. 

Sat. The Sin Bearer Isa. 53: 4-12. 

S. Itis Finished John 17 : 1-5. 



192 people's lesson book. 

Time.— Friday, April 7, A. D. 30. 

Place.— Golgotha (Calvary) near Jerusalem. 

Persons. — Jesus, two thieves, Pilate, soldiers, disciples, women, 

priests, people. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— The soldiers in their cruel mockery, put a 
crown of thorns on Jesus' head. Then they led him out to Golgotha or 
Calvary, where they crucified him ; and two robbers with him. The 
soldiers divided his clothing, and then sat down to watch him. Pilate 
put a writing on the cross stating who Jesus was, and why he was put 
to death. While Jesus was hanging there in his dying agony, the chief 
priests, and the crowd as they passed by, mocked him. From noon until 
three o'clock a strange darkness clouded the day, and at last, crying out 
with a loud voice, It is finished, Jesus the Saviour died on the cross. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 29. reed — as a mock scepter; bowed the knee — in 
mock homage, v. SO. spit upon him — to show deepest con- 
tempt, v. 32. Cyrene — a city of Libya, in northern Africa, v. 
33. a place — Luke and John say the place, probably the usual 
place of execution; Golgotha — Hebrew word for skull: the 
Latin word Calvary means the same. It is so called, probably 
from the shape of the hill, or mound, v. 34. vinegar . . . gall 
— a sour wine with something in it to stupefy or deaden the 
sense of pain. See Ps. 69 : 21. v. 38. two thieves— or robbers, 
right , . . left — as if Jesus were the chief criminal. In this 
also they fulfilled scripture, Isa. 53 : 12. v. 42. If he be— the 
taunt is a challenge to him as a false Messiah — he could not save 
himself because he would save others, v. 45. sixth hour — 
noon ; ninth hour— 3 o'clock ; darkness — not an eclipse, but all 
nature expressing abhorence of the wicked deed. v. 46. Eli — 
or " Eloi" quoted from Ps. 22 : 1, see Isa. 53 : 10; 63 : 3, 5. v. 
49. The rest— in mockery said, Let be, let us see whether Elias 
will come. v. 50. cried again — it is finished. John 19 : 30; 
with a loud voice — a shout of victory. Luke 23 : 46. 

QUESTIONS. 
For Review. — What was the charge against Jesus when he 
was arraigned before Pilate? What choice did Pilate give 
the Jews ? How did Pilate seek to free himself from responsi- 
bility ? How did they finally procure the condemnation of 
Jesus? W T hat at the last did Pilate do ? 

OK THE LESSON. 
I. Soldiers' Mocking. — What did the soldiers do to Jesus after 
the sentence ? v. 29. What did they mean by the reed ? 
And by bowing the knee ? How did they salute him ? 



THE CRUCIFIXION. 



193 



How did they add pain to insult? v. 30. 

After mocking him what did they do? v. 31. Why did 

they lead him away? Who carried the cross? Why 

did not Jesus carry it all the way ? 
Whom did they compel to carry the cross? y. 32. Where 

was Cyrene ? 

2. The Crucifixion. — To what place did they take Jesus ? v. 

33. Why was it called Golgotha? Was it within or 

without the city ? 
What did they "give him to drink? y. 34. What was 

thisyinegar? What 

is meant by gall or 

myrrh? Why was 

this given? Why 

would he not drink 

it? What prophecy 

was fulfilled in this ? 

Describe the cross. 
What did they do 

with his clothing? 

v. 35. Who did 

this? What proph- 
ecy was fullilled in 

this? What was meant by his yesture? 
After this what did these soldiers do? y. 36. 
What was set up oyer Christ's head? y. 37. What did 

this state ? Who did this ? 
Who were crucified along with Jesus ? v. 38. How were 

thev placed ? What prophecy did this fulfil ? Isa. 53 : 

12." ^ 
What is said of those who passed by? y. 39. What did 

they mean by wagging their heads ? 
What did they say ? v. 40. What did they mean by say- 
ing "If thou be the Son of God"? Of "what did they 

think his helplessness furnished the proof? 
Who else mocked him? v. 41. 
What did they say? v. 42. What is implied in the 

words "himself he cannot save"? What in the words 

" If he be the 'King of Israel M ? What proof of his 

Messiahship did they require ? 




Three forms of the cross. 



194 people's lesson book. 

What did thev further say? v. 43. What scripture is 

here fulfilled? Ps. 22 : 8. 
Who else reviled him? v. 44. What is said in Luke 23 : 

39-41 ? 
3. The Darkness. — What took place between the sixth and 

ninth hours? v. 45. 
What did Jesus do about the ninth hour? v. 46. "What 

is meant by Eli? Where are these words found? Ps. 

22:1. 
What did those that stood by say ? y. 47. Why did they 

say so ? 
What did one of them do? v. 48. 
What did the rest say ? v. 49. 
What did Jesus then cry? v. 50. What was finished? 

How is his death expressed ? What is said in Luke 23 : 

46? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. The death of Christ is the central fact of redemption. 

2. Men regard his death with opposite feelings now as 

then. 

3. He could not "save himself and also save lost men. 

4. Our sin nailed him there ; and from love for us he bore 

it all. 

5. He now says, I did all this for thee : Lovest thou me ? 

l,».;»«M«l«»«««»«-«W»««>-»«W««»iM««-I"l-«»«>"—««-««"-»l"i»««MlM»l». 



>-»««-<l 



Y OTOG, 

JESUS DIED for OM >, 

XT S AXJL. 



LESSON 75. [A.D.30. 

THE EARTHQUAKE, BURSAL AND WATCH. 
Matt. 27 : 51-66. 

MEMORY VERSE.— 3STow when the centurion, and 
they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earth- 
quake, and those things that were done, they feared 
greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.— Matt. 27 :54. 



THE BUKIAL, EARTHQUAKE AND WITCH. 



195 



LESSON OUTLINE. 

1. The Earthquake. 

2. The Burial. 

3. Setting the 

Watch. 



Home Headings. 

M. The Rent Vail Heb. 10 : 19-25. 

T. Faithful Disciples John 19 : 25-27. 

W. The Bodv of Jesus John 19 : 31-37. 

Th. Secret Disciples John 19 : 33-42. 

F. The Rock Tomb Matt 27 : 51-61. 

Sat. Sepulchre Made Sure... Matt. 27 : 62-66. 
S. Expectation Luke 23 : 54-56. 



Time, Place and Persons.— See Lesson 74. 

Sketch of the Lesson. — Jesus died on the cross, the vail of the 
temple was rent, the earth quaked, the tombs were opened. Whent he 
evening came, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. 
He wrapped it in a linen cloth, with spices, and laid it in his own new 
tomb. The chief priests went to Pilate, and asked him to put a guard of 
soldiers at the sepulchre, lest his disciples should come by night and 
steal Jesus away, and then say that he had risen. So the Jews sealed the 
stone, and placed the guard. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Verse 51. vail of the temple — which separated the holy 
from the most holy place; it was said to be very beautiful and 
costly ; rent in twain — torn in two, which signified that now 
there is free access for sinners to the mercy seat. Heb. 10 : 19- 
22. v. 53. after his [r. e. Christ's] resurrection . . . appeared 
— evidently means, in connection with 1 Cor. 15 : 20, that their 
rising and appearance was after the resurrection of Christ; and 
that their appearance was like his, during the interval between 
his resurrection and ascension, v. 54. centurion — captain of a 
hundred men. v. 55. many women . . . afar off— at one time 
near the cross, John 19 : 25, now farther away. v. 56. three 
Marys: Mary Magdalene, Maty the mother of James and Joses 
and the wife of Alpheus, Mary the mother of Jesus, John 19 : 25, 
and Salome the wife of Zebedee, Mark 15 : 40. v. 57. Joseph 
— a rich man, a secret disciple, a member of the council, Luke 
23 : 50, 51. v. 58. begged — asked for, the Jews before this 
had asked that the body might be taken from the cross, John 
19 : 31. v. 59. clean linen cloth — with spices which Nicodemus 
brought, John 19 : 39, after the Jewish manner of burial, John 
19 : 40. v. 62. next day — perhaps some time during the Jewish 
Sabbath, v. 63. that deceiver — still speaking of Christ as an 
imposter; After three days — they understood the meaning of 
the Saviour's words better than the disciples did. v. 66. sealing 



196 people's lesson book. 

the stone — putting the governor's seal In wax or clay upon it 
in such a way that the stone could not be moved without break- 
ing it. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Describe the mockery of Jesus by the sol- 
diers. Describe the crucifixion. Who reviled the dying 
Saviour? How did they taunt him? Describe the death of 
Jesus. 

ON THE LESSON. 

1. The Earthquake.— What occurred in the temple at the 

time of Christ's death? v. 51. W T here was the vail 

placed ? What is meant by rent in twain ? What did 

this rending signify? Heb. 10 : 19-22. What made 

the earthquake alarming? 
W 7 hat next took place? v. 52. Who are meant by saints? 

What is meant by slept? 
When did they come out of their graves? v. 53. Where 

did they go? Who were witnesses of their resurrection? 
What did the centurion sav? v. 54. What did he mean 

by this? What did others do? Luke 23 : 48. 
What women were there? v. 56. Where had they come 

from? What had they done for Jesus? What is said of 

Mary Magdalene? Luke 8 : 2. What other Marys are 

mentioned ? 

2. The Burial. — What was done in the evening? v. 57. 

What do we know of this Joseph ? 
What did he ask of Pilate? v. 58. Why did Joseph ask 

for the body of Jesus? What did Pilate do to be sure 

that he was dead ? Mark 15 : 44. When sure of this, 

what did Pilate do ? 
What then did Joseph do? v. 59. Who assisted him in 

the burial? 
In whose tomb was Jesus laid? v. 60. W 7 here was it? 

How was it closed? 
W r ho witnessed the burial? v. 61. 

3. Setting the Watch.— Who went to Pilate the next day? 

v. 62. When did the day begin, according to their mode 
of reckoning? 
What did they say to Pilate ? v. 63. W 7 hy did they say 
" that deceiver"? 



THE KESTJRKECTION. 197 

What did they ask of Pilate ? v. 61 "What did they mean 

by " making sure"? What did they pretend to fear? 

What did they mean by " the last error shall be worse 

than the first" ? 
What did Pilate tell them ? v. 65. What did he mean 

by " make it as sure as ye can v ? 
How did they make it sure ? v. 66. What is meant by 

sealing the stone ? By setting a watch ? 

PRACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Jesus is a divine Saviour. 

2. True love shows brightest in the dark hour. 

3. Even in the burial of Christ, prophecy is fulfilled. 

4. The deceitful suspect deceit in others. 

5. Vain are all human efforts to defeat the Saviour's 

word and work. 



LESSON 76. [A. D. 30. 

THE RESURRECTION.— Matt. 28 : 1-20. 

MEMORY VERSE.— He is not here : for he is risen, 
as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.— 
Matt. 28 : 6. 



LESSON OUTLINE. 
1. The Empty 
Tomb. 



Home Readings. 



M. The Resurrection Matt. 28 : 1-20. 

T. The Joyful Message Mark 16 : 3-8. 

W. The Risen Saviour John 20 : 11-18. 

2. The False Story. I Th. Some Doubted Mark 16 : 9-14. 

« mi. r-i i. r-i I F - Other Appearances 1 Cor.,15 : 3-10. 

3. The Great Com- ; SaL Great Commission Mark 16 : 15-20. 

mission. i ® 4 ^°» * am w * tJl F ou John 14 : 15-26. 



Time.— Sunday, April 9, A. D. 30. 

Place. — Golgotha, near Jerusalem. 

Persons.— Centurion, Mary Magdalene, Mary, soldiers, angels, Jesus, 
priests, the eleven disciples. 

Sketch of the Lesson.— Early in the morning of the first day of 
the week came two Marys to tho sepulchre. The Roman guard, the 
stone, the seal, the tomb and death itself, could not hold the rising Lord. 



198 people's lesson book. 

The disciples fouod the tomb empty ; and an angel said to the women, 
he is risen, as he said. The guard told the chief priests what had hap- 
pened ; and paid them money to say that the disciples had stolen 
the body while they slept. Jesus meets the disciples in Galilee, and tells 
them that all power is given unto him, and then he says, Go ye there- 
fore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, 
and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, . . . and lo, I am with you alway, 
even unto the end of the world. Amen. 

LESSON EXPLANATIONS. 

Yerse 1. began to dawn— very early, while it was yet dark ; 
other Mary — the mother of James, as in 27 : 61. v. 5. Fear 
not ye — whatever reason the soldiers may have had for fear, 
you have none. v. 6. Come, see the place — to satisfy yourselves 
that he is risen, v. 7. go quickly — tell the glad news for their 
comfort, v. 9. All hail — literally, rejoice ye; by the feet — a 
common posture of reverence in the East. v. 10. Be not afraid 
— implies that they were still trembling with fear ; go tell — re- 
peats the angel's message, v. 11. when they were going — at 
the very time the women were on their way to tell the disciples; 
the watch — the soldiers who had guarded the sepulchre, v. 
12. large money — a large bribe, v. 13. disciples . . . stole — 
a most improbable story. How could they know what was 
done, if they were asleep? v. 14. persuade him — by the same 
sort of bribery, v. 15. as they were taught — they said what 
they were told to say; until this day — to the time when this 
gospel was written, v. 16. eleven — shows that all the apostles 
were present; but other disciples may also have been there; 
Galilee . . . mountain — the place is not certainly known ; it 
was known to the disciples, v. 17. some doubted — not the pro- 
priety of worshipping him ; but whether he were really alive 
from the dead. v. 19. teach — literally disciple, or make disci- 
ples of; all nations — equivalent, to preach the gospel to every 
creature, Mark 16 : 15; baptizing them — an ordinance by 
which they should acknowledge Christ, and profess their obedi- 
ence to him. v. 20. alway— all the days; unto the end of the 
world — spoken either of time or place, to the end of the age, 
or wherever in the world you may go, to the end of time. 

QUESTIONS. 

For Review. — Describe what happened when Christ died. 
What friends were beholding the crucifixion ? Who attended 
to his burial ? Describe it. What was done to guard against 
deception ? How was the sepulchre secured ? 




THE RESURRECTION. 199 

1. The Empty Tomb. — Who came early to the sepulchre? v. 

1. Why did they come? For what other purpose? 

Mark 16 : 1. 
What had taken place? v. 2. Who had removed the 

stone ? 
How is the angel described ? v. 3. 
How did his appearance affect the guard ? v. 4. What 

does their shaking imply ? Why were they " as dead 

men " ? 
What did the angel say to the women? 

v. 5. Why need they not fear? What 

does he say they had come for? 
What did he tell them about Jesus? v. 

6. Why was he not there? When 

had Christ said that he would rise? 
What else did the angel say? v. 7. 

Why tell them to see the place ? What 

did he then tell them to do? What message did he 

give them ? What implies that they were not to delay ? 
What did the women then do? v. 8. How were they 

affected by what they had seen and heard? 
Whom did they meet on the way? v. 9. What did he 

say to them ? Meaning of " all hail" ? What did they do ? 

What was expressed in their holding him by the feet ? 
What did Jesus then tell them ? v. 10. 

2. The False Story.— Who else went to the city while the 

women were going? v. 11. What report did the guard 

make to the chief priests ? 
What did these priests do first? v. 12. What did they 

give these soldiers? Why did they do this ? 
What was the falsehood the priests told them to utter ? v. 

13. What makes this an improbable story? 
What did they promise to do, if the governor should hear 

of it ? v. 14. How would they persuade him ? What is 

meant by secure you? 
What is further said of the soldiers? v. 15. What is 

said about this false story ? Why were they so anxious 

to disprove Christ's resurrection? 

3. The Great Commission. — Who went to Galilee to meet 

Christ? v. 16. To what place did they go? What 
mountain was this? 



200 



people's lesson book. 



What did they do when they saw him ? v. 17. What is 
said of some of them ? Of what did they doubt ? 

What did Jesus first say to them? v. 18. What did he 
mean bv all power ? Why had this power been given 
him? Phil. 2:9-11. 

What great commission did he give them? v. 19. What 
is the meaning of "teach all nations"? Why were 
they to baptize them ? Into what were they to baptize 
disciples? What does this formula of baptism teach? 

What should they observe? v. 20. What does this im- 
ply ? W hat promise is given ? What is the meaning 
of this promise ? 

PBACTICAL TEACHINGS: 

1. Angels are ministering spirits. 

2. Jesus by his death abolished death. 

3. He is not only a crucified but a risen Redeemer. 

4. These are the glad tidings we ought to tell. 

5. Jesus is with his people always. 

6. All power is still his : the world shall yet bow to him. 



Gro ye therefore and teach all nations to , 
Observe all things I have commanded. 



HE THAT 

AND IS 

SHALL 



B 



ELIEVETH 
APTIZED 
E SAVED. 



BIBLE DICTIONARY OF PERSONS AND PLACES. 



A'braham (father of a multitude) ; founder of the Hebrew 
nation, with whom God first covenanted to make Israel his 
chosen people and a great nation. The God of Abraham, Isaac 
and Jacob is always named as the covenant God of Israel. For 
Abraham's history see Gen. 12-24; for Isaac's, Gen. 21 : 3, 8, 
and Chap's 22 to 28. 

Alms, in Christ's time, were of two kinds — (1) of money for 
the poor of the place, received in a chest in the synagogue on 
the Sabbath ; (2) of food or money for the poor in general, col- 
lected daily from house to house. It was sometimes included 
under the general name of " righteousness/' because it was 
deemed so important. In Matt. 6 : 1, alms means righteousness, 
in v. 2, it means " giving " for any good object. 

Bab'ylon (Greek form of Babel)) situated on both sides of 
the Euphrates river about 200 miles above its junction with the 
Tigris, reported to be the largest known ancient city in extent, 
capital of the Babylonian Empire. Its early history is obscure. 
After separating from Assyria it became the head of a powerful 
empire, its greatness being due chiefly to the able government 
of Nebuchadnezzar. Besides the countries in the plain of 
Mesopotamia and the highland regions beyond, Babylonia 
included Arabia, Syria and Palestine. This empire was over- 
thrown by Cyrus, and was succeeded by the great Medo-Persian 
empire. 

Beel'zebub, or Beelzebul, the name of a heathen deity, and 
also the name by which the Jews described the prince, or sov- 
ereign, of evil spirits. He is also called Satan, or, The Satan, 
that is, the enemy, and is regarded as the opposer of all good, 
and the leader of all spiritual evil. 

(201) 



202 people's lesson book. 

Beth/any, a village about 2 miles east of Jerusalem, on the 
eastern slope of the mount of Olives : the home of Lazarus, 
Martha, and Mary, and a place of frequent resort by Jesus. It is 
now a poor hamlet of about 20 rude stone houses. 

Beth 'phage {House of Figs) ; a place near, perhaps, west of 
Bethany. 

CaBS-a-re'a PM-lip'pi, a town at the source of the Jordan, 
about 120 miles from Jerusalem. It is situated at the base of 
Hermon, whose towering peaks rise 8000 feet above the city. 
So far as known, this place was the northern limit of Christ's 
travels. The ancient name of the city was Paneas or Panium, 
after the pagan deity Pan. Herod the Great built a temple 
here to Augustus ; after him, Philip the Tetrarch enlarged the 
city and named it Caesarea, after Tiberius Csesar, and added 
"Philippi" to distinguish it from Csesarea on the Mediter- 
ranean. 

Caper 'naum, a city on the N. W. shore of the Sea of Galilee, 
and the home of Jesus after he left Nazareth. It has been 
completely destroyed as predicted, Matt. 11 : 20-23, and its site, 
even, is not certainly known ; it was either at Khan Minieh or 
more probably at Tell Hum. At the latter place the ruins of a 
synagogue, 74 feet 9 inches long, by 56 feet 9 inches wide, 
have been found, by some supposed to be the one which the 
Roman centurion built, Luke 7 : 1-10, and in which Jesus taught. 

Da'vid (beloved); the youngest of eight sons of Jesse, of the 
tribe of Judah, of the town of Bethlehem. In early life a shepherd, 
and afterwards the best and greatest king of Israel. He planned 
the building of the temple, was the author of many of the 
Psalms, and as the " sweet singer of Israel," poet, and prince, 
his name is the greatest of all the Israelitish kings. 

Dev'il (slanderer) the most subtle and malignant of the evil 
spirits, the great enemy of God and man. See Beelzebub. 

Dev'ils, Possessed with, the word translated devil in these 
texts, is not the same as that applied to Satan ; it means demons, 
or evil spirits. There are three explanations of the disease, 



BIBLE DICTIONARY. 203 

" possessed with devils:' 7 (1) that it meant the prevalence of 
evil in the world; but this view destroys the historic character, 
of the gospel. (2) That the persons were not under the power 
of demons, but believed they were, or others believed they 
were, their real disease being epilepsy, or some form of insan- 
ity. (3) That the persons were possessed by evil spirits which 
brought on forms of bodily and mental diseases. The last 
view is historical and most in accordance with the plain mean- 
ing of the text. 

El'ders, a term formerly applied to heads of families, then to 
older men of influence ; finally to a .special class having author- 
ity among the Jews, and from this usage it passed over into the 
New Testament and to signify persons of authority in the 
Christian Church. 

Eli 'j ah. (God- Jehovah or Jehovah my Strength)] called the 
Tishbite, or " of Tishbeh " or Thisbe, his native village, in 
Gilead; east of the Jordan. We know nothing of his early life, 
It is said that he was of the inhabitants, or strictly "the 
sojourners," of Gilead. He seems to have been a hermit and a 
Nazarite, 2 Kings 1:8; withstood Ahab ; is fed by ravens, then 
by a widow of Zarephath, during the famine ; raises her son from 
the dead ; calls fire from heaven ; destroys the prophets of Baal; 
brings rain; flees to Horeb; testifies against Ahab and Jezebel; 
is taken to heaven after having made Elisha his successor. 

Fasting, religious abstinence from food. The Mosaic law 
appointed only one day as a fast, the day of Atonement; 
special public fasts were sometimes proclaimed, as by Nehe- 
miah, 9 : 1, the Jews at Shushan, Esth. 4 : 16, &c. At the time 
of our Lord fasting was a very prominent religious observance, 
and the occasion of much hypocrisy and parade. 

Galilee, Sea of, a lake 60 miles northeast of Jerusalem, pear- 
shaped, 12 miles long, 4 to 7 miles wide. It is 6S2 feet below 
the level of the Mediterranean, and is 160 feet deep. It is sub- 
ject to sudden and violent storms. It still abounds in fish; but 
few boats are found upon its waters. 



204 people's eesson book. 

Hell, in the N. T. two words are so translated, Hades and 
Gehenna. Hades means the unseen world, spirit world; and 
evidently refers not so much to the final state of punishment, 
as to the place of the dead. Gehenna, originally designated the 
valley of Hinnom, immediately south of Jerusalem. Here 
human sacrifices had been offered to Moloch (1 Kings 11 : 7). 
Afterward it was the place where a fire was kept up to burn the 
rubbish, garbage, etc., of the temple and city, and the dead bodies 
of malefactors. Hence it became a symbol of everlasting 
punishment. And as such more nearly corresponds to our 
word "hell." 

Her'od An'tipas, was the son of Herod the Great, during 
whose reign Christ was born (Matt. 2 : 1-14). He was tetrarch 
of Galilee and Persea and reigned from B.C. 4 to A.D. 39. On 
a visit to his half-brother Philip, he alienated the affections of 
Herodias, and afterwards eloped with her. John the Baptist 
denounced the shameless deed, but the king while he was star- 
tled was not converted. He imprisoned the prophet and had 
him beheaded, although he dreaded the deed, and feared John. 
In the year 39 he was deposed from his office and sent into exile 
to Lyons, France, where he died. 

Hero'dians, a Jewish political party, loyal to the Roman 
government, and therefore of directly opposite principles to the 
Pharisees. They, however, united with the Pharisees in the 
effort to destroy Christ. 

Isa'iah, in Greek Esaias. He was the son of Amoz, and pro- 
phesied during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Heze- 
kiah. From his clear predictions concerning the Messiah he 
has been called the Messianic prophet, the evangelical prophet, 
and from the beauty and excellence of his prophecies the 
prince of all the prophets. 

James, one of the three favorite apostles, a son of Zebedee, and 
known as James the Elder, or the Great, to distinguish him from 
James the Less, a son of Alpheus. He was beheaded by King 
Herod, Acts 12 : 2, and became the first martyr among the apostles. 



BIBLE' DICTIONARY. 205 

Jeremi/ali, one of the great prophets. He was the son of 
Hilkiah of Anathoth, and lived nnder varions kings from 
Josiah to the captivity. 

Jer'ieho, an ancient and celebrated city, situated in the val- 
ley of the Jordan, about five miles west of the river, and 6 or 
7 miles north of the Dead Sea. It was an important city in 
Christ's time ; but was destroyed by the Romans under Vespasian. 

Jeru'salem, the capital of the Hebrew kingdom, and the sa- 
cred city of the world. In fifteen centuries, from Joshua to the 
Emperor Titus, the city was besieged seventeen times, twice de- 
stroyed, its walls many times broken down, and though now a 
prosperous city, the Jerusalem of our Lord and his apostles is 
buried from 20 to 80 feet beneath the ruin and rubbish of cen- 
turies. It is 32 miles from the Mediterranean and 18 miles 
from the Dead Sea, among the mountains of Judaea, about 2500 feet 
above the level of the Mediterranean. The walls encircling 
the city are 21 miles in extent. It was taken by Titus in A. D. 
70, and destroyed but has been rebuilt and is now ruled by the 
Turks. It has 30,000 population, 7000 of whom are nominal 
Christians. For fuller account, see Schaff's Dictionary of the 
Bible. 

John, brother of James the Elder, and an apostle. He is 
supposed to have been a cousin of Jesus. He was first a disci- 
ple of the Baptist, and then of Jesus. With James and Peter, 
he beheld many of the special events in the life of our Lord ; 
such as the Transfiguration, the raising of Jairus's daughter ; 
he leaned on Christ's bosom at supper, and is called the beloved 
disciple : he was banished to Patmos, and wrote the book of 
Bevelation. 

John the Baptist, son of Zacharias and Elisabeth, and kinsman 
of Jesus : was born about six months before Christ : preached 
in the wilderness and prepared the way for the coming of the 
Lord ; was cast into prison by Herod and finally beheaded at 
the instance of Herodias, the wife of Philip. 

Jo'nah, the son of Amittai, and sent to prophesy against 



206 people's eesson book. 

Nineveh. Instead of obeying this command he attempted to 
flee by sea to Tarshish. The ship was overtaken by a storm 
and he was thrown into the sea where he was swallowed by a 
great fish. After three days he was thrown up upon the land, 
and the command having been repeated he went to Nineveh 
and fulfilled his mission. 

Jo'seph, Mary's husband (1 : 24), a devout Jew (1 : 19), lin- 
eally descended from King David (1 : 1-16), though living in 
moderate circumstances (Luke 2 : 24; see Lev. 12 : 8) as a car- 
penter or worker in wood (13 : 55; see Mark 6:3). He proba- 
bly died before Jesus grew to manhood (John 19 : 26, 27). 

Kingdom of God (Kingdom of Heaven) ; these phrases are 
used in various, though analogous senses. The fundamental 
idea is that of rule, God is King. His kingdom includes every- 
thing everywhere over which his power is exercised, Ps. 103 : 
19. But it is usually taken in a more limited sense ; as mean- 
ing (1) simply heaven ; the place where he reigns supreme, and 
his will is done perfectly, Matt. 8 : 11. (2) His true people; 
sometimes called the invisible church ; which consists of those 
only who are really by grace his willing and obedient subjects, 
Matt. 16 : 18, 19. And, as true inward piety is that which 
characterizes them as belonging to this kingdom, the phrase is 
sometimes used for simply piety itself, Rom. 14 : 17. (3) The 
visible church as it exists in the world ; since it consists of such 
as profess their subjection to him as King and Lord. 

Lep'er — Lep'rosy, is a loathsome disease still found in Egypt 
and Syria ; in its worst form it attacks the bones and the mar- 
row so that the joints of the hands and feet lose their power; 
the limbs of the body fall together. The other, a milder form 
called white leprosy, sometimes attacked only one limb, as in 
the case of Moses, Ex. 4 : 6. For the laws respecting the dis- 
ease, see Lev. 14 : 3-32. For full account see Dr. Post's article 
in People's Commentary on Matthew. 

Magdala (tower) a town on the west side of the Sea of Galilee ; 
Christ came thither after his miracle of feeding the four thousand. 



BIBLE DICTIONARY. 207 

Ma'ry, The virgin mother of our Lord, of the tribe of Judah, 
and of the lineage of David ; her parents names were unknown, 
her home was at Xazareth : commended to John's care by our 
Lord on the cross. The legends in regard to her are untrustworthy. 
Three or four persons named Mary are mentioned in the N. T. 

Mount of Olives, or Olivet, a ridge of hills east of Jerusalem, 
about 3,000 feet above the level of the sea ; derived its name 
from the many olive trees that grew on it; frequently mentioned 
in the O. T. (2 Sam. 15 : 30-32; 1 Kings 11 : 7) : the Ascension 
of Christ took place from it (Acts 1 : 12). 

Naz'areth, a mountain city of Galilee, 6 miles west of mount 
Tabor. It is not noticed in the Old Testament, and is famous 
chiefly as the home of Jesus during his youth. It is now a 
town of 5000 inhabitants, and is called En-Xasireh. 

Par'able, "the parable is a brief narration of natural or 
earthly things, so constructed as to represent spiritual or heav- 
enly truths to the mind. The sacred parable was a wonderful 
vehicle of truth to serve three distinct purposes — namely to 
reveal, to conceal, and to 'perpetuate. It revealed the sacred 
truth by the striking power of analogy and illustration. It 
concealed' the truth from him who had not by the divine spirit 
and previous instruction, the true key to its hidden meaning. 
To such a one it was a riddle or a tale. But the truth thus em- 
bodied in narrative was, as it were, materialized, and made fit 
for perpetuation" — Whedon. 

Pe'ter, the son of Jonas, brother of Andrew, and one of the 
twelve disciples. His original name was Simon. Jesus gave 
him the name of Peter, which means Rock, at the time he 
made the great confession. He was a fisherman. With 
John and James, he stood in close intimacy with the Saviour. 
He was admitted into the sick chamber in Jairus' house, wit- 
nessed the Transfiguration, went into the deepest recesses of 
Gethsemane. By nature he was warm-hearted, impulsive and 
outspoken. Though he promised the most enthusiastic devotion, 
when the time of trial came he denied his Master with oaths. 



208 people's lesson book. 

After the resurrection he attested the sincerity of his repentance 
by earnest and untiring Christian effort. He suffered martyr- 
dom, by being crucified head downwards it is supposed. 

Phar'isees {separate) ; the largest and most powerful sect or 
party among the Jews in the time of our Lord. They held to 
the immortality of the soul, to future punishment, to Divine 
Providence, and to the authority of tradition. They were for- 
mal, and very exact in fulfilling ceremonial law, but in the 
time of our Lord, were less mindful of keeping the weightier 
matters of God's moral law. 

Proph'et, one who speaks for another. In a wider sense it 
means interpreter, and thus it is applied to every one who has 
received a commission from God to preach or proclaim or inter- 
pret God's will. In a narrower sense it means one who predicts 
or foretells what is yet future. 

Sad'ducees, they were the rationalists of that day in religion; 
worldly minded, loose in their views and modes of worship; 
opposed to the Pharisees. Their four chief doctrines were — 1, 
denial of the divinity and authority of the oral law ; 2, accep- 
tance of the teachings of Moses, and denial of the later books 
of the Old Testament as Scriptures ; 3, denial of man's resur- 
rection, holding that the soul died with the body ;• 4, absolute 
moral freedom of man. They were the persecuters of the early 
Church. 

Scribes, persons whose ofiice it was to copy, to read, and to ex- 
pound the Scriptures. Their existence as a class dates from the 
time of Hezekiah (B. C. 726-698). In Christ's time they inter- 
preted the religious life and opinions of the Jews. Members 
were admitted into their order by special examination. The 
scribes and lawyers were one class. 

Si'don, a city, 20 miles north of Tyre, noted in Joshua's time 
as great Zi'don, Josh. 11 : 8; it was famous for commerce, 
manufacture, and arts ; it has been several times destroyed and 
rebuilt ; its site is now occupied by the city of Saida, with a 
population of about 10,000. 



BIBLE DICTIONARY. 209 

Soromon, the youngest son of David, 1 Chron. 3:5; carefully 
educated ; was anointed king while his father still lived, 1 Kings 
1 : 29-40 ; beginning his reign as a pious and wise king, he be- 
came very luxurious, built the temple and many other buildings 
with great splendor, sank into sin, sensuality, marrying many 
heathen wives, and died, after a reign of 40 years, about 975 B.C. 

Son of Man, a title which Jesus alone uses of himself in the 
Gospels. Daniel (7 : 13), used it prophetically, and three times 
it is employed in the New Testament outside the gospels (Acts 
7 : 56; Rev. 1 : 13; 14 : 14). It expresses the idea that as he 
was the Son of God, so he was truly man, and included the idea 
of his humiliation (Matt. 8 : 20). 

Syn'agogue, the place for holding religious services. They 
became common about the time of the Captivity. To build a 
synagogue was a deed of piety. They might be built in any 
place where there were at least ten worshippers. Tradition 
says there were 480 in Jerusalem. The interior had an ark or 
chest containing a copy of the law, a low desk or pulpit, and 
seats for the elders and officers. The services consisted of 
prayers, reading of the law and the prophets, expounding them 
or preaching, concluding with a prayer or the benediction. 

Tyre, a famous city of Phoenicia, first noted in Josh. 19 : 29« 
Its king (Hiram) aided Solomon in building the temple. Its 
people were idolaters. It was still a thriving and populous 
city in N. T. times. The old city has been completely de- 
stroyed; huge stones and fragments of marble columns lie 
along the shore, and the fishermen spread their nets upon them ; 
thus fulfilling the prophecy, "A place to spread nets upon," 
Ezek. 26 : 14. The new city has miserable streets, and poor 
houses, and a population of about 5000. 



210 



people's lesson book. 



ORDER OF SERVICE FOR A SUNDAY-SCHOOL— No. I. 



1. Silence in school. 

This may be secured by the su- 
perintendent rising in his place, 
lifting up his hand, and holding it 
quietly until there is perfect order. 
Then let him make a downward 
motion of the hand, as a signal for 
all to bow their heads in prayer. 
The superintendent should never 
begin until all are still; he will 
secure quietness in others by being 
calm and quiet himself. 

2. Call to Thanksgiving. 
Supt. — O give thanks unto the 

Lord; for he is good; for his mercy 
endureth for ever . . . O give thanks 
unto the God of heaven: for his 
mercy endureth for ever. 

3. Singing. 

4. Silent Prayer.— Followed by 
a brief prayer for a blessing on 
teachers and taught, and ending 
with the Lord's Prayer, in which 
all should join. 

5. Singing. 

6. Responsive Reading. — Of 
the lesson for the day, or 



THE BEATITUDES. 

Supt. — Blessed are the poor in 
spirit; 

School. — For theirs is the king- 
dom of heaven. 

Supt.— Blessed are they that 
mourn ; 



School. — For they shall be com- 
forted. 

Supt. — Blessed are the meek: 

School. — For they shall inherit 
the earth. 

Supt. — Blessed are they which do 
hunger and thirst after righteous- 
ness; 

School. — For they shall be filled. 

Supt. — Blessed are the mercilul: 

School. — For they shall obtain 
mercy. 

Supt.— Blessed are the pure i 
heart: 

School. — For they shall see God. 

Supt. — Blessed are the peace- 
makers: 

School.— For they shall be called 
the children of God. 

All. — Blessed are they which are 
persecuted for righteousness' sake: 
for theirs is the kingdom of heav- 
en.— Matt. 5 : 3-10. 

7. Teaching the Lesson. 

8. Collection. — Notices, distri- 
bution of lesson helps, books and 
papers, report of attendance. 

9. Five Minutes' Talk.— Im- 
pressing the lesson from the super- 
intendent's desk. 

10. Silent Prayer. — Followed 
by a brief audible prayer. 

11. — Singing and Dismissal. 

12. — Ten minutes' prayer meet- 
ing of the teachers and older 
scholars. 



THE LORD'S PKAYER. 
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is. in 
heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us 
our debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into 
temptation ; but deliver us from evil : For thine is the 
kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. 



ORDER OF SERVICE. 



211 



ORDER OF SERVICE.— No. 2. 



1. Silence, at one tap of the bell. 

2. Call to Praise. — At a second 
tap of the bell, let all rise and sing. 

3. All bow their heads, and rever- 
ently say: 

"Hear my prayer, O Lord, give 
ear unto my supplications: in thy 
faithfulness answer me." Then let 
the superintendent or some one 
selected by him, follow in a prayer 
for the Holy Spirit to bless the 
instruction. 

4. Singing. 

5. Responsive Reading.— The 
lesson for the day, or the following 
selection: 

Svpt. — Hear ye therefore the para- 
able of the sower. 

School. — When any one heareth 
the word of the kingdom, andunder- 
standeth it not, then cometh the 
wicked one, and catcheth away that 
which was sown in his heart. This 
is he which received seed by the 
way side. 

Supt. — But he that received the 
seed into stony places, the same is 
he that heareth the word, and anon 
with joy receiveth it; 

School. — Yet hath he not root in 
himself, but dureth for a while : for 
when tribulation or persecution 



ariseth because of the word, by and 
by he is offended. 

Supi. — He also that received seed 
among the thorns is he that heareth 
the word; and the care of this 
world, and the deceitful ness of riches 
choke the word, and he becometh 
unfruitful. 

School. — But he that received seed 
into the good ground is he that 
heareth the word, and understand- 
eth it; which also beareth fruit, and 
bringeth forth, some a hundredfold, 
some sixty, some thirty. 

6. Singing. 

7. Teaching the Lesson. 

8. Notices. — Collection, report of 
attendance, distribution of lesson 
books, lesson helps and papers. 

9. Review of Lesson. — From 
superintendent's desk. 

10. Singing. 

11. Prayer. 

12. Dismissal.— All rising, bow- 
ing the head, and saying, Jesus 
said: "Whosoever therefore shall 
confess me before men, him will I 
confess also before my Father 
which is in heaven." "Let thy 
mercy, O Lord, be upon us, accord- 
ing as we hope in thee." 



ORDER OF SERVICE.— No. 3. 



1. Singing. 

2. Prayer, closing with the Lord's 
Prayer. 

3." Singing. 

4. Reading the lesson. 

5. Singing. 

6. Class instruction. 



7. Singing. 

8. Notices and announcements. 

9. Application of lesson irom 
superintendent's desk. 

10. Singing. 

11. Closing Prayer. 

12. Benediction, 



212 



PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK. 



ORDER OF SERVICE.— No. 4. 



1. Silence. 

2. A Call to Worship. — Say in 
concert : "O come, let us sing unto 
the Lord: let us make a joyful 
noise to the rock of our salvation. 
Let us come before his presence with 
thanksgiving, and make a joyful 
noise unto him with psalms. Ps. 
95 ; 1-2. 

3. Singing. 

4. Responsive Reading of Scrip- 
ture. 

Supt.—O Lord our Lord, 

How excellent is thy name in all 
the earth! 

School. — Who hast set thy glory 
above the heavens. . . . 

Supt. — When I consider thy Leav- 
ens, the work of thy fingers, 

School. — The moon and the stars, 
which thou hast ordained ; 

Svpt. — What is man, that thou art 
mindful of him? 

School. — And the son of man that 
thou visitest him ? 

Supt. — For thou hast made him a 
little lower than the angels, 

School. — And hast crowned him 
with glory and honour. 

Supt. — Thou madest him to have 



dominion over the works of thy 
hands ; 

School. — Thou hast put all things 
under his feet : 

Supt. — All sheep and oxen, yea, 
and the beasts of the field ; 

Supt. — The iowl of the air, and the 
fish of the sea, 

School. — And whatsoever passeth 
through the paths of the seas. 

All. — O Lord our Lord, how ex- 
cellent is thy name in all the earth ! 

5. Prayer. — All joining in Lord's 
Prayer at the close. 

6. Singing. 

7. Teaching the Lesson. 

8. Notices, Reports, and Col- 
lection. 

9. Review of Lesson, by super- 
intendent. 

10. Prayer. 

11. Singing. 

12. Dismission, after repeating : 
" Praise ye the Lord. O give 

thanks unto the Lord, for he is 
good: for his mercy endureth for- 
ever. Oh, that men would praise 
the Lord for his goodness, and for 
his wonderful works to the children 
of men !" 



The foregoing " orders " may be modified by the leader, or may be 
used alternately, the first on one Sabbath, and the second on the fol- 
owing Sabbath, or any one of the exercises may be omitted and some 
other substituted in its place. Their chief use is to suggest some definite 
order, which the superintendenet should mark out clearly, either on 
paper or in his mind, for every Sabbath's session of the school. 



h: "2" i& itrs 



" C/»/0 sw fl £^//tf w born, unto 
us a son is given." 

Bright and joyful is the morn, 
lor to us a child is born ; 
From the highest realms of heaven 
Unto us a Son is given. 

On His shoulder He shall bear 
Power and majesty, and wear 
On His vesture and His thigti 
Karnes most awful, names most high. 

"Wonderful in counsel, He, 

The Incarnate Deity, 

Sire of ages ne'er to cease, 

King of Kings, and Prince of Peace. 

Come and worship at his feet ; 
Yie^d to Christ the homage meet, — 
From the cradle to the throne, — 
Homage due to God alone. 



Thou 



springing 



blessest the 
thereof" 

We plough the fields and scatter 

The good seed on the land, 
But it is fed a ad watered 

By God's almighty hand ; 
He sends the snow in winter, 

The warmth to swell the grain, 
The breezes and the sunshine, 

And soft refreshing rain. 

Cho. — All good gifts around us 

Are sent from heaven above ; 
Then thank the Lord, Oh thank the 
Lord, 
For all His love. 

We thank Thee, th^n, O Father, 

For all things bright and good, 
The seed-time and the harvest, 

Our life, our health, our food: 
Ho gifts have we to offer 

For all Thy love imparts, 
But that which Thou de irest, 

Our humble, thankful hearts. 
All good gifts Ac. 



" The desire of all nations shall 
come." 

Come, thou long-expected Jesus, 
Born to set Thy people free ; 

From our fears and sins release us ; 
Let us fiud our rest in Thee. 

Israel's strength and consolation, 
Hope of all the earth Thou art, 

Dear Desire of every nation, 
Joy of every longing heart. 

Born Thy people to deliver, 
Born a child and yet a king, 

Bor-j to reign in us lorever, 
Now Thy gracious kiugdom bring. 

By Thine own eternal Spirit 
Rule in all our hearts alone 

By Thine all-sufficient merit 
Kaise us to Thy glorious throne. 



" Call the Sabbath a delight" 

Another six day-*' work i3 done, 
Another Sabbath is begun ; 
Return my soul, enjoy thy rest, 
Kevere the day thy God has blest. 

Oh that our thoughts and thanks 

may rise, 
As grateful incense to the skies, 
And fetch from heaveu that sweet 

repose, 
Which none but he who feels it 

knows. 



This 



the 



heavenly calm within 
breast 

Is the sure pledge of glorious rest, 
Which for the Church of God re- 
mains. 
The end of cares, the end of pains. 

In holy duties let the day, 
In holy pleasures, pas3 away ; 
How sweet a Sabbath thus to spend, 
In hope of one that ne'er shall end. 

(213) 



214 



scholar's hand-book. 



" Wash me, and I shall be whiter 
than snow," 

Dear Jesus, I long to be perfectly 

whole ; 
I want Thee forever to dwell in my 

soui : 
Break down every idol, cast out 

every foe, 
Now, wash me aud I shall be whiter 

than snow. 

Chorus. 
Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than 

snow; 
Now wash me, and I shall be whiter 

than snow. 

Dear Jesus, come down from Thy 

throne in the sides, 
And help me to make a complete 

sacrifice ; 
I give up myself, and whatever I 

know — 
Now wash me and I shall be whiter 

tnan snow. — Choeus. 
Dear Jesus, for this I most humbly 

entreat; 
I wait, Messed Lord, sitting low at 

'J hy leet. 
By faith, for my cleansing, I see the 

blood flaw 
Now wash me and I shall be whiter 

than snow. — Chorus. 
From Calvary Songs. 



"Hitherto hath the Lord helped 
us." 

Come, thou fount of every blessing, 

Tune my heart to sing Thy grace: 
Streams of mercy, never ceasing, 

( all for songs of loudest praise. 
Jesus sought me when a stranger, 

Wander ng from «he fold of God; 
He, to rescue me from danger, 

Interposed his precious blood. 

Oh ! to grace how great a debtor 

Dailv I'm constrained to be! 
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, 

Bind my wa-dering heart to Thee. 
Prone 10 wander, Lord, I feel it — 

Prone to have the God I love ; 
Here's my heart, oh take and seal it, 

Seal it for Thy courts above. 



" Christ is, all and in all. 1 * 

Jesus, lover of my soul, 

Let me to Thy bosoui fly, 
While tue nearer wate^-s roll, 

While the tempest still is high. 
Hide me, my isaviour, hide, 

Till the storm of life be past; 
Safe into the haven guide ; 

Oh receive my soul at last. 

Other refuge have I none ; 

Hangs my helpless soul on Thee; 
Leave, ah ! leave me not alone, 

Stiil support and comfort me. 
All my trust on Thee is stayed ; 

All my help from Thee I bring, 
Cover my defenceless head 

With the shadow of Thy wing. 

Wilt thou not regaid my call? 

Wilt Thou not accept my 
prayer ? 
Lo! Isiuk, I faint, I fall, 

Lo ! on Thee I cast my care, 
Reach me out Thy gracious hand; 

While I of thy strength receive, 
Hopmg ji gainst hope I stand, 

Dying, and behold I live. 



" Surely He hath borne our 
griefs." 

Christ, what burdens bowed Thy 
head! 

Our load was laid on Thee ; 
Thou stoodest in the sinner's stead, 

Bearing all ill tor me : 
A victim led, Thy blood was shed ; 

Now there's no load for me. 

Death and the curse were in the cup, 
Christ 'twas full for Thee ! 

But Thou hast drained the last dark 
drop, 
'Tis empty now for me. 

That bitter cup— 'ove drank it up ; 
Now blessing's draught for me. 

For me. Lord Jesus. Thou hast died, 

And I have died in Thee ! 
Thon'rt risen ; my bands are all un- 
tied ; 
And now Thou liv'st in me. 
When purified, made white and 
tried, 
Thy glory then for me. 






HYMNS. 



215 



'• I have called you friends ," 

One there is above all others, 

Well deserves the name of Friend; 

His is love beyond a brother's, 
Costly, free, and knows no end; 

They who once His kindness prove 

Find it everlasting love. 

When he lived on earth abased, 
"Friend of Sinners" was His 
name; 

Now, above all glory raised, 
Ho rejoices in the same; 

Still he ca! Is them brethren, friends ; 

And to all their wants attends. 

Oh for grace, our hearts to soften ! 

Teach u^, Lord, at length to lore; 
We, alas ! forget too often 

What a friend we have above ; 
But, when home our souls are 

broughi- 
We will love Thee as we ought. 



" Go ye into all the world, and 
preach the gospel to every 
creature. " 

Lift up the cross in every land, 
On fertile soil, on arid sand, 
Wherever human hearts are found, 
Wherever human voices sound, 
His perfect life and death proclaim. 
His love, his grace, his saving name. 

Let might and mind their forces 

lend, 
The glorious message to extend, 
Let stormy wind and genUe breeze, 
The story bear o'er distant seas, 
And every language ' neath the sun 
Tell what His matchless love hath 

done. 

Immortal Prince, victorious King, 
Send forth Thy word on swiftest 

wing 
And let it speed from shore to shore, 
Till all the world Thy name adore, 
Till every form of evil cease, 
And earth become the home of 

peace. 

By permission of Hugg and Arm- 
strong. 



** They rejoiced with exceeding 
great joy.'' 

The Christmas bells are ringing — 

How sweetly do they chime I 
Like the glad angels singing 

At the first Christmas time. 
Oh, let us join their praising, 

And swell with one accord, 
The songs the bells are raising 

To Jesus Christ, the Lord. 

How clear their sound when sweetly 

They greet the sabbath day, 
Inviting those who meekly 

Unite to praise and pray; 
Oh, let us heed their ringing, 

And willingly repair 
To God's own temple bringing 

Tributes of praise and prayer. 

How glad the bells when b'ithely 

They h ail the Christmas morn, 
Then every heart beats lightly, 

Since Christ a babe was bom ; 
Now at his feet adoring 

We humble offerings bring. 
And with rhe bells upraising, 

Yield tribute to our King. 

Oh, may their music ever 

Eemind us, a3 they ring, 
Of songs that falter never— 

The songs that angels sing ; 
The songs the saints victorious^ 

With all the ransomed train, 
Before the throne most glorious 

For evermore acclaim. 



" God forbid that I should glary % 

save in the Cross." 
In the cross of Christ I glory, 

Towering o'er the wrecks of time ; 
All the light of sacred story 

Gathers round its head sublime. 

When the woes of life o'ertake me, 
Hopes deceive and fea r s annoy, 

Never -hall the cross forsake me: 
Lo ! it glows with peace and joy. 

When the sun of bliss is beaming 
Light and love upon my way, 

From the cross the radiance stream- 
ing, 
Adds more lustre to the day. 



216 



SCHOLAR'S HAND BOOK. 



* % He brought me forth also into a 

large place" 
Thank and praise Jehovah's name ; 

For his mercies firm and sure, 
From eternity the same, 

To eternity endure. 
Let the ransomed thus rejoice, 

Gathered out of every land, 
As the people of His choice, 

Plucked from the destroyer's hand. 

In the wilderness astray, 

Hither, thither, while they roam, 
Hungry, fainting, by the way, 

Far from refuge, shelter, home, — 
Then, unto the Lord, they cry ; 

He inclines a gracious ear. 
Sends deliverance from on high, 

Rescues them from all their fear. 

Te a pleasant land He brings, 

Where the vine and olive grow, 
Where from flowery hills the springs 

Through luxuriant valleys flow. 
Oh, that men would praise the Lord 

For His goodness to their race; 
For the wonders of His word, 

And the riches of His grace. 



*Men shall be blessed in Him : 
all nations shall call Him 
blessed. " 

Jesus shall reign where'er the sun 
Does his successive journeys run, 
His kingdom stretch from shore to 

shore, 
Till moons shall wax and wane no 

more. 

People and realms of every tongue, 
Dwell on His love with sweetest 

song, 
And infant voices shall proclaim 
Their early blessings on His name. 

Blessings abound where'er He 

reigns ; 
The prisoner leaps to lose his chains ; 
The weary find eternal rest ; 
And all the sons of want are blest 

Let every creature rise and bring 
Peculiar honors to our King, 
Angels descend with songs again, 
And earth repeat the loud amen. 



' Whom have I in heaven but 
Theef" 

Come, let us sing of Jesus, 

While hearts and accents blend ; 
Come, let us sing of Jesus, 

The sinner's only friend : 
His holy soul rejoices, 

Amid the choirs above, 
To hear our youthful voices 

Exulting in his love. 

We love to sing of Jesus, 

Who died, our souls to save ; 
We love to sing of J esus, 

Triumphant o'er the grave . 
And in our hours of danger, 

Well trust his love alone, 
Who once slept in a manger, 

And now sits on the throne. 

Then let us sing of Jesus, 

While yet on earth we stay, 
And hope to sing of Jesus 

Throughout eternal day : 
For those who here confess Him, 

He will in heaven confess ; 
And faithful hearts that bless him, 

He will forever bless. 



* How beautiful upon the moun- 
tains are the feet of him that 
bringeth good tidings. " 

How beauteous are their feet, 
Who stand on Zion's hill, 
Who bring salvation on their 
tongues, 
And words of peace reveal ! 

How charming is their voice ! 
How sweet the tidings are ! 
Zion, behold thy Saviour King; 
He reigns and triumphs here. 

The watchmen join their voice, 
And tuneful notes employ ; 
Jerusalem breaks forth in songs, 
And deserts learn the joy. 

The Lord makes bare His arm, 
Through all the earth abroad; 
Let every nation now behold 
Their Saviour and their God. 



HYMNS. 



217 



** Thou crtntmest the year with Thy 
goodness." 
The reaper's song is ringing 

Around the gathered grain ; 
Let us unite in singiug, 

And swell the glad refrain : 
To Him for our sustaining, 

Who blessed the willing ground, 
With shining and with raining, 

That harvests might abound. 

The winter's gloomy hours 

Have but prepared the way 
lor springtime's gentle showers, 

And summer's genial ray ; 
And now with rapture gazing 

On autumn's fruitful prime, 
Let us unite in praising 

The Husbandman divine. 

The barns that late were empty 

Are filled with golden grain ; 
The orchards hang with plenty, 

And we rejoice again. 
Oh, let us raise Him ever 

The songs of hearts that glow, 
And praise the mighty Giver, 

From whom all blessings flow. 

Te little ones grow bolder 
In singing praise to God ; 

Te stronger ones and older 
Unite to praise the Lord. 

God, our songs upraise we 
As with the sheaves we bow, 

With all Thy works we praise 
Thee, 
Accept our worship now. 
From the American Sunday School 
Union Quarterly. 

" And the city was pure gold, 
like unto clear glass" 

Jerusalem the golden, 

With milk and honey blest, 

Beneath Thy contemplation 
Sink heart and voice opprest ; 

1 know not, oh ! I know not, 
What social joys are there, 

What radiancy of glory, 
What light beyond compare. 

sweet and blessed country, 
The home o f God's elect ! 

sweet and blessed country, 
That eager hearts expect I 



Jesus, in mercy bring us 
To that dear land of rest, 

Who art, with God the Father. 
And Spirit, ever blest. 



"Let the Children of Zion be 
joyful in their King.'* 

Come, we that love the Lord, 
And let our joys be known ; 

Join iu a song with one accord, 
And thus surround the throne 

Let those refuse to sing 
That never knew our God ; 

But children of the heavenly King 
May speak their joys abroad. 

The hill of Zion yields 
A thousand sacred sweets, 

Before we reach the heavenly 
fields, 
Or walk the golden streets. 

Then let our songs abound, 

And every tear be dry ; 
We're marching through Imman- 
uere ground 

To fairer worlds on high. 



" They brought unto him all 
that were diseased'* 

Thine arm, Lord, in days of old, 

Was strong to heal and save ; 
It triumphed o'er disease and death, 

O'er darkness and the grave ; 
To Thee they went, the blind, the 
dumb, 

The palsied and the lame, 
The leper with his tainted life, 

The sick with fevered frame. 

Be Thou our great Deliverer still, 

Thou Lord of life and death ; 
Restore and quicken, soothe and 
bless, 
With Thine almighty breath ; 
To hands that work and eyes that 
see 
Give wisdom's heavenly lore, 
That whole and sick, and weak ana 
strong, 
May praise Thee evermore. 



218 



THE SCHOLAR'S HAND-BOOK. 



u It is finished." 
Hark ! the voice of love and mercy 

Sounds aloud from Calvary ; 
See ! it rends the rocks asunder — 
Shakes i he earth and veils the sky ! 

" It is finished ! " 
Hear the dying Saviours cry. 

It is finished !— Oh, what pleasure 

Do these precious words afford 
Heavenly blessings, without mea- 
sure. 
Flow to us from Christ the Lord. 

" It is finished ! * 
Saints, the dying words record. 

Finished, all the types and shadows 

Of the ceremonial law ; 
Finished, all that God had promised ; 
Death and heil no more shall awe. 

•' It is finished ! " 
Saints, from hence your comforts 
draw. 

Tune your harps anew, ye seraphs 
Join to sing the pleasing theme; 

All on earth and all in heaven, 
Join to praise Immanuers name. 

Hallelujah! 
Glory to the bleeding Lamb. 



u I am crucified with Christ" 
When I survey the wondrous cross 

On which the Prince of glory died, 
My richest gain I count but loss, 

And pour contempt on all my 
pride. 

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, 
Save in the death of Christ my God ; 

All the vain things that charm me 
most, 
I sacrifice them to his blood, 

See from his head— his hands — his 

feet, 

Sorrow and love flow mingled 

down! 

Did e'er such love and sorrow meet. 

Or thorns compose so rich a crown ? 

Were the whole realm of nature 
mine, 

That were a present far too small; 
Love so amazing — so divine, 

Demands my soul, my life, my all. 



"And was transfigured** 

When on Sinai's top I see 

Go»i oeseend, in majesty, 
To proclaim his holy law, 
All my spirit sinks with awe. 

When in ecstasy sublime, 
Tabor's glorious steep I climb 
At the too transporting light 
Darkness rushes o'er my sight. 

When on Calvary I rest, 
God in flesh made manifest, 
Shines in my Redeemer's face, 
Full of beauty, truth and grace. 

Here I would forever stay, 
Weep nnd gaze my soul away; 
Thou art heaven and earth to 

me. 
Lovely, mournful Calvary. 



"/ am the good Shepherd,** 

Saviour, like a shepherd lead ui: 

M uch we need thy tender care; 
In thy pleasant pastures fe*d us, 
For our use thy fold prepare. 

Ble>sed Jesus ! 
Thou hast bought us, thine we 
are. 

We are thine, do thou befriend ut 8 

Be the guardian of our way; 
Keep thy flock, from sin defend us, 
Seek us when we go astray. 

Blessed Jesus ! 
Hear young children when they 
pray. 

Thou hast promised to receive u», 
Poor and sinful though we be, 
Thou hast mercy to relieve us, 
Grace to cleanse, and power to 
free 
Blessed Jesus ! 
Let us early turn to thee. 

Early let us seek thy favor, 
Early let us do thy will ; 

Holy Lord, our only Saviour, 
With thy grace our bosom fill. 

Blessed Jesus ! 
Thou hast loved us, love us itili, 



HYMNS. 



219 



The precious blood of Christ. 

Precious, precious blood of Jesus 

Sued on Calvary : 
Shed for rebels, shed fur sinners, 

Shed for me. 
Precious blood that hath redeemed 

All the p> ice is paid ; [us ! 

Perfect pardon now is offered, 

Peace is made. 

Precious, precious blood of Jesus, 

Let it make thee whole ; 
Let it flow in mighty cleansing 

O'er thy soul. 
Though thy sins are red like crim- 

Deep in scarlet glow, [son, 
Jesus' precious blood can make them 

White as snow. 

Precious, precious blood of Jesus, 

Ever flown; g free! 
Oh believe it, oh receive it, 

"lis for thee. 
Precious blood, whose full atone- 
ment 

Makes us nigh to God ! 
Precious blood, our soug and glory, 

Praise and laud ! 
From the American Sunday 
School Union Quarterly. 



" Let us return unto the Lord" 
Return, wanderer, return, 

And seek an injured Father's face ; 
Those warm desires that in thee 
burn 

Were kindled by reclaiming grace. 

Return, wanderer, return, 
And seek a Father's melting 
he it; 
His pitying eyes thy grief discern, 
His hand shall heal thine inward 
smart. 

Return, wanderer, return, 
Thy Saviour bids thy spirit live ; 

Go to his I deeding feet and learn 
How freely Jesus can forgive. 

Return, O wanderer, return, 

And wipe away the failing tear; 
*Tis God wh > says, " No linger 
mourn," 
'Tis mercy's voice invites thee 
near. 



" Behold how good and how 
pleasant it is for brethren to 
dwell together in unity," 

Blest be the tie that binds 
Our hearts in Christian love: 
The fellowship of kindred minds 
Is like to that above. 

Before our Father's throne 
We pour our ardent prayers; 
Our fears, our hopes, our aims are 



Our comforts and our 

We share our mutual woe* ; 
Our mutual burdens bear ; 
And often fur each other flowi 
The sympathizing tear. 

When we asunder part, 
It gives us inward pain ; 
But we shall still be joined in heart, 
And hope to meet again. 

This glorious hope revives 
Our courage by the way; 
While each in expectation lives, 
And longs to see the day. 

From sorrow, toil and pain, 
And sin, we shall be free ; 
And perfect love and friendship 
reign 
Through all eternity. 

** God is my portion forever n 
Forever with the Lord 1 

Amen! so let it be ! 
Life from the dead is in that word 

' Tis immortality. 
Cho. There'll be no sorrow there, 
There'll be no sorrow there, 
In heaven above, where all is 

love, 
There'll be no sorrow there. 

Here in the body pent, 

Absent from him I roam. 
Yet nightly pitch my moving tent 

A day's march nearer home. Cho. 

My Father's house on high. 

Home of my soul, how near, 
At times, to faith's foreseeing eye, 

The golden gates appear 1 Cho. 



220 



THE SCHOLAR'S HAND-BOOK. 



' Come unto Me, all ye that 
labor and are heavy laden." 

Come, ye weary, heavy laden, 
Lost and ruined by the fail ; 

If j ou Tarry till you're better, 
You will never come at all : 

Not the righteous — 
Sinners, Jesus came to call. 

Come, ye needy, come and wel- 
come ; 
God's free bounty glorify; 
True belief and true repentance, 
Every grace that brings us nigh, 

Without money, 
Come to Jesus Christ, and buy. 

Let not conscience make you 
linger, 
Nor of fitness fondly dream; 
All the fitness he requireth 
Is to feel your need of him : 

This he gives you ; 
Tis the Spirit's rising beam. 

Lo, the incarnate God, ascended, 
Pleads the merit of his blood : 

Venture on him, venture wholly, 
Let no other trust intrude ; 

None but Jesus 
Can do helpless sinners good. 

Saints and angels, joined in con- 
cert, 
Sing the praises of the Lamb ; 
While the blissful seats of heaven 
Sweet'yecho with his name; 
Hallelujah ! 
Sinners here may sing the same. 



'• / have set thee over the nations" 

From Greenland's icy mountains, 

From India's coral strand. 
Where Afric's sunny fountains 

Roll down their golden sand ; 
From many an ancient river, 

From many a palmy plain, 
They call us to deliver 

Their land from error's chaia. 

What though the spicy breezes 
Blow soft o'er Tevlon's isle — 

Though every prospect pleases, 
And ^»nly man is vile ? — 



In vain, with lavish kindness, 

The gifts of God are srrown; 
The heathen, in his blindness, 
Bows down to wood and stone. 

Shall we, whose souls are lighted 

By wisdom from on high — 
Shall ve to men benighted — 

The lamp of life deuy ?— 
Salvation ! — oh salvation ! 

The joyful sound proclaim 
Till earth's remotest nation 

Has learned Messiah's name. 

Waft — waft, ye winds, his story ; 

And you, ye waters, roll, 
Till, like a sea of glory, 

It spreads from pole to pole ; 
Till o'er our ransomed n«ture f 

The Lamb for sinners slain, 
Redeemer, King. Creator, 

Returns in bliss to reign. 



" Father, I have sinned against 
heaven and before thee" 

Just as I am, without one plea, 
But that thy blood was shed for me 
And that thou bid'st me come to thee, 
Lamb of God, I come. 

Jnst as I am, and waiting not 
To rid my soul from one dark blot, 
To thee, whose blood can cleans* 
each spot, 
Lamb of God, I come. 

Just as I am, though toss'd about 
With many a conflict, many a doubt, 
Fightings within, and foes without, 
Lamb of God, I come. 

Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind,— 
Sight, riches, healing of the mind, 
Yea, all I need, in thee I find, — 
Lamb of God, I come. 

Just as I am -thou wilt receive, 
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, re- 
lieve, 
Because thy promise I believe — 
Lamb of God, I come 1 

Just as I am, thy love, I own. 
Has broken every barrier down; 
Now to be thine, and thine alone, 
Lamb of God, I come. 



The most Concise, yet most Complete, Dictionary of the Bible 
The Cheapest, Newest and best Book of the kind, 



THE FOURTH EDITION. 

Reduced in Price. Larger and Handsomer. 

Tbe American May-School Union's 

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EDITED BY 

PHILIP SCHAFF, D.D., LL.D. 
Reduced in Price from $2.50 to $2. 



This Dictionary of the Bible includes Biography, Natural 
History, Geography, Topography, Archeology and Liter- 
ature. It has 12 maps and over 400 illustrations, Tables of 
Jewish weights and measures, and is replete with Bible ref- 
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It contains nearly 1000 pages, and measures 8 inches by 6 
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Schaff 's Bible Dictionary deservedly heads the list of the 
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will be welcomed and used by every Bible reader who wishes 
to secure the most, accurate information at the least expend- 
iture of time and money.— The Literary News, New York. 



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1122 Chestnnt Street, Philadelphia. 
10 Bible Honse, New York. 



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For the Parent, Pastor, Superintendent & Teacher. 

PEOPLE'S COMMENTARY ON MATTHEW, 

With the authorized and revised versions, critical, exegeti- 
cal and applicative notes, and illustrations from Eastern life. 

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Cloth, 12mo, 316 pp., four Colored Maps, numerous Engrav- 
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This Commentary aids the reader in the study of the en- 
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PEOPLE'S LESSON BOOK ON MATTHEW. 

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Just Published— The Second Edition. 
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PEOPLE'S COMMENTARY 

ON MATTHEW. 

By EDWIN W. RICE, D.D., 

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The Commentary deserves high praise for thoroughness, 
brevity, impartiality and the neatest possible exhibition of 
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